United States Patent 5,463,116: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 5,463,116, titled "Crystals of N-(trans-4-isopropylcyclohexylcarbonyl)-D-phenylalanine and methods for preparing them," was assigned to Ajinomoto Co., Inc. and granted on October 31, 1995. This patent is significant in the field of organic chemistry, particularly in the synthesis and application of specific amino acid derivatives. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Scope of the Patent
Technology Field
The patent pertains to the field of organic chemistry, specifically focusing on the synthesis and characterization of crystals of N-(trans-4-isopropylcyclohexylcarbonyl)-D-phenylalanine. This compound is a derivative of the amino acid phenylalanine, modified with a specific cyclohexylcarbonyl group[2].
Key Components
The scope includes the methods for preparing these crystals, which involve specific chemical reactions and purification steps. The patent also covers the physical and chemical properties of these crystals, such as their melting points, solubility, and optical activity.
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims typically cover:
- The specific chemical structure of N-(trans-4-isopropylcyclohexylcarbonyl)-D-phenylalanine.
- The methods for synthesizing these crystals, including the reactants, reaction conditions, and purification steps.
- The physical and chemical properties of the resulting crystals[2].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the invention by detailing particular aspects of the independent claims, such as specific reaction conditions, reagents, or purification techniques.
Patent Landscape Analysis
Defining Scope and Keywords
To analyze the patent landscape around US 5,463,116, one must first define the relevant technology field and identify key terms. In this case, keywords might include "N-(trans-4-isopropylcyclohexylcarbonyl)-D-phenylalanine," "amino acid derivatives," "cyclohexylcarbonyl group," and "crystal synthesis"[3].
Search and Organize Patents
Using databases such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search, European Patent Office's esp@cenet, or the World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE, one can retrieve relevant patents based on these keywords. Organizing these patents by factors like filing date, assignee, and technology subcategories helps in understanding the historical context and current state of the field[1][3].
Identify Trends and Key Players
Analyzing the patent filings over time reveals trends in research and development within this technological domain. Key players, such as pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and chemical manufacturers, can be identified by their patent portfolios and frequency of filings. For example, Ajinomoto Co., Inc., the assignee of US 5,463,116, is a significant player in the field of amino acid research and synthesis[3].
Analyze Citations and Evolution
Studying how patents reference each other provides insights into the impact and development of the technology. The Common Citation Document (CCD) application can be useful here, as it consolidates citation data from multiple patent offices, allowing a comprehensive view of how different patents influence each other[1].
Generate Insights for Decisions
The analysis can translate into practical guidance for strategic decisions. For instance, understanding the competitive landscape can help in identifying potential collaborators or competitors. Recognizing areas of high patent activity can indicate emerging technologies or market opportunities. Here is an example of how such insights can be generated:
"A patent landscape analysis offers insights into ongoing innovations by revealing information about patent filings within a specific technological domain, offering a present picture and a prediction about technological trends, key players, and new and exciting innovations."[3]
Key Players and Competitors
Ajinomoto Co., Inc.
As the assignee of US 5,463,116, Ajinomoto Co., Inc. is a major player in the field of amino acid research and synthesis. Their patent portfolio indicates a strong focus on developing new compounds and methods in organic chemistry.
Other Competitors
Other companies and research institutions active in this field include pharmaceutical giants and specialized chemical manufacturers. For example, companies like Merck & Co., Inc. or Pfizer Inc. may have related patents in the area of amino acid derivatives and their applications.
Geographical Distribution
The geographical distribution of patent filings can provide insights into regional innovation hotspots. For instance, Japan, the United States, and European countries are often leaders in chemical and pharmaceutical research, reflecting their strong patent activity in these areas.
Emerging Technologies and White Spaces
Identifying areas with high patent activity or emerging trends can help in spotting opportunities for innovation. For example, the increasing focus on biotechnology and personalized medicine may create new avenues for the application of amino acid derivatives.
Legal Vulnerabilities
Analyzing the patent landscape also helps in identifying potential legal vulnerabilities. This includes understanding the expiration dates of existing patents, potential infringement risks, and opportunities for licensing or collaboration.
Conclusion
The analysis of United States Patent 5,463,116 and its surrounding patent landscape provides a comprehensive view of the technological domain of amino acid derivatives. By understanding the scope, claims, and broader patent landscape, inventors and businesses can make informed decisions about their research and development strategies, identify key players and competitors, and navigate potential legal vulnerabilities.
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent covers the synthesis and properties of N-(trans-4-isopropylcyclohexylcarbonyl)-D-phenylalanine.
- Patent Landscape: Analysis involves defining scope, searching and organizing patents, identifying trends and key players, and analyzing citations.
- Key Players: Ajinomoto Co., Inc. and other pharmaceutical and chemical companies are significant players.
- Geographical Distribution: Japan, the U.S., and European countries are innovation hotspots.
- Emerging Technologies: Biotechnology and personalized medicine present new opportunities.
- Legal Vulnerabilities: Understanding patent expiration dates and potential infringement risks is crucial.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of United States Patent 5,463,116?
A: The main subject is the synthesis and characterization of crystals of N-(trans-4-isopropylcyclohexylcarbonyl)-D-phenylalanine.
Q: Who is the assignee of this patent?
A: The assignee is Ajinomoto Co., Inc.
Q: How can one conduct a patent landscape analysis for this technology field?
A: By defining the scope, searching and organizing patents, identifying trends and key players, analyzing citations, and generating insights for strategic decisions.
Q: What are some key insights gained from a patent landscape analysis?
A: Insights include understanding ongoing innovations, identifying key players, recognizing trends, and spotting emerging technologies and potential legal vulnerabilities.
Q: Where can one find additional resources for patent searching and analysis?
A: Resources include the USPTO's Patent Public Search, European Patent Office's esp@cenet, and the World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents. (2018, October 18). Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Unified Patents Portal - US-20050014836-A1. Retrieved from https://portal.unifiedpatents.com/patents/patent/US-20050014836-A1
- Goldstein Patent Law - How to Do Patent Landscape Analysis. Retrieved from https://www.goldsteinpatentlaw.com/how-to-patent-landscape-analysis/
- U.S. Department of Commerce - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. (2024, October 17). Retrieved from https://www.commerce.gov/bureaus-and-offices/uspto
- Law360 - U.S. Patent Number 5,463,116. Retrieved from https://www.law360.com/patents/5463116/ptab_cases
