Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,403,847
Introduction
United States Patent 5,403,847, titled "Use of α1C specific compounds to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia," is a patent that outlines a method for treating a specific medical condition using particular compounds. To understand the scope and claims of this patent, it is essential to delve into its various components and the broader patent landscape.
Patent Overview
Publication Number and Authority
The patent number is US5,403,847A, and it was issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)[5].
Prior Art and Legal Status
The patent's prior art date is significant as it sets the baseline for what was known in the field before the invention. The legal status of the patent is listed as "Expired - Lifetime," indicating that the patent is no longer in force[5].
Claims Analysis
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes both independent and dependent claims. Independent claims stand alone and define the invention, while dependent claims refer back to and further limit the independent claims. For US5,403,847A, the independent claims would typically describe the method of treating benign prostatic hyperplasia using α1C specific compounds, while dependent claims might specify particular compounds, dosages, or administration methods[5].
Claim Scope
The scope of the claims determines the breadth of protection granted by the patent. In this case, the claims would cover the use of specific compounds that bind to α1C adrenergic receptors for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. This scope is crucial for understanding what is protected and what might infringe on the patent.
Classification and Categorization
International Patent Classification (IPC)
The patent is classified under various IPC categories, such as A61K31/454, which pertains to medicinal preparations containing organic active ingredients, specifically non-condensed piperidines and other heterocyclic compounds[5].
US Patent Classification
The USPTO also classifies patents under its own system. For US5,403,847A, the classifications include A61K31/00, A61K31/33, and A61K31/435, among others, reflecting its medical and pharmaceutical nature[5].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
To understand the patent landscape, it is important to identify related patents and applications. This can be done using tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search or international databases such as the European Patent Office's esp@cenet or the World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE[1][4].
Global Dossier and Common Citation Document (CCD)
Tools like the Global Dossier and CCD can provide insights into the patent family and prior art citations across different jurisdictions, helping to map out the broader landscape of similar inventions[1].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can offer detailed information on claims from US patents, including those related to medical treatments. This dataset can help analyze trends and scope measurements in patent claims, providing context for the significance of US5,403,847A[3].
Practical Considerations
Searching and Analyzing Patents
For professionals and researchers, tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs), and the Public Search Facility are invaluable for conducting thorough searches and analyses of patents like US5,403,847A[1].
Small Claims Patent Court
While not directly related to the analysis of US5,403,847A, the concept of a small claims patent court, as studied by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), could impact how future disputes over similar patents are handled, potentially affecting the landscape of medical and pharmaceutical patents[2].
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope and Claims: The patent's claims define the method of treating benign prostatic hyperplasia using α1C specific compounds, with a focus on the scope of protection.
- Classification: The patent is classified under various IPC and USPTO categories related to medicinal preparations.
- Patent Landscape: Understanding related patents and applications is crucial for mapping the broader landscape.
- Economic and Research Implications: Datasets and research tools can provide insights into trends and significance.
- Practical Considerations: Utilizing USPTO resources and staying informed about legal developments can aid in thorough patent analysis.
FAQs
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What is the main invention described in US Patent 5,403,847A?
- The main invention is a method for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia using α1C specific compounds.
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How can I search for related patents?
- You can use the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and other international patent databases.
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What is the significance of the IPC classification for this patent?
- The IPC classification helps categorize the patent under specific medical and pharmaceutical categories, aiding in searches and analyses.
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Is the patent still in force?
- No, the patent is listed as "Expired - Lifetime," meaning it is no longer in force.
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Where can I find detailed information on patent claims and scope measurements?
- The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from US patents, including scope measurements.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents
- ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset
- Duke University Libraries - Finding Patents Online
- Google Patents - US5403847A
