Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,480,656: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Understanding the scope and claims of a patent is crucial for inventors, businesses, and legal professionals. This article will delve into the details of United States Patent 5,480,656, titled "Prolonged release microcapsules," to provide a thorough analysis of its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape.
Background of the Patent
United States Patent 5,480,656 was granted on November 14, 1995, to inventors associated with the company Alkermes Controlled Therapeutics Inc. The patent describes a method for creating microcapsules designed for the zero-order release of physiologically active polypeptides over an extended period, typically at least two months[5].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent defines what is protected and what falls within the inventor's rights. Here are the key aspects:
Invention Description
The patent details a method for preparing microcapsules that encapsulate a physiologically active polypeptide. These microcapsules are designed to release the polypeptide at a constant rate, ensuring a steady and predictable therapeutic effect over a prolonged period.
Key Components
- Microcapsule Composition: The microcapsules are composed of a biocompatible polymer, such as poly(lactic acid) or poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), and the encapsulated polypeptide.
- Release Mechanism: The microcapsules are engineered to release the polypeptide through a zero-order release mechanism, which means the release rate is constant and independent of the concentration of the polypeptide.
- Application: The microcapsules can be used for various therapeutic applications, including the delivery of hormones, growth factors, and other biologically active molecules.
Claims of the Patent
The claims section of a patent is the most critical part, as it defines the legal boundaries of the invention.
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that outline the core aspects of the invention:
- Claim 1 describes the microcapsule composition and its method of preparation.
- Claim 2 specifies the zero-order release mechanism and the duration of the release.
- Claim 3 details the therapeutic applications of the microcapsules.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further narrow down the scope by adding additional limitations to the independent claims. For example, dependent claims might specify particular types of biocompatible polymers or specific polypeptides that can be encapsulated.
Patent Landscape Analysis
Understanding the patent landscape around US 5,480,656 involves examining related patents, prior art, and the global context.
Prior Art
The patent cites several prior art references, including earlier patents and publications related to microcapsule technology and drug delivery systems. For instance, it references U.S. Patent 3,041,289 and U.S. Patent 4,601,863, which describe earlier methods of encapsulating active agents[4].
Related Patents
There are several related patents that either build upon or are similar to the technology described in US 5,480,656. For example, patents like US 8,765,030 describe other methods for preparing enteric release systems, which, although different, are part of the broader drug delivery system landscape[4].
Global Context
The global patent landscape for drug delivery systems is extensive and involves various international intellectual property offices. Databases such as the European Patent Office's esp@cenet, the Japan Patent Office, and the World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE provide access to international patent applications and granted patents in this field[1].
Patent Analytics and Claim Coverage
To fully understand the value and coverage of US 5,480,656, patent analytics tools can be employed.
Claim Coverage Matrix
A Claim Coverage Matrix can help identify which patents and claims are actively protecting the intellectual property related to microcapsule technology. This matrix categorizes patents by claims and scope concepts, making it easier to filter, search, and analyze large numbers of patent claims[3].
Claim Charts
Interactive claim charts generated by tools like ClaimScape® can help technical experts determine whether a particular scope concept is applicable to a target product or method. These charts highlight areas where there are gaps in current coverage and indicate future design opportunities[3].
Practical Implications
Understanding the scope and claims of US 5,480,656 has several practical implications:
Infringement Analysis
For companies developing similar microcapsule technologies, it is crucial to conduct an infringement analysis to ensure that their products do not infringe on the claims of US 5,480,656.
Licensing and Collaboration
The patent's scope and claims can also influence licensing agreements and collaborative research. Companies may need to obtain licenses or negotiate with the patent holder to use the protected technology.
Future Innovations
The patent landscape analysis can guide future innovations by identifying gaps and opportunities in the existing technology. This can lead to the development of new and improved microcapsule systems.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: US 5,480,656 protects a method for creating microcapsules with a zero-order release mechanism for physiologically active polypeptides.
- Claims: The patent includes independent and dependent claims that define the core aspects and specific limitations of the invention.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape that includes prior art, related patents, and international intellectual property considerations.
- Patent Analytics: Tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and Claim Charts are essential for understanding the value and coverage of the patent.
- Practical Implications: Understanding the patent's scope and claims is crucial for infringement analysis, licensing, collaboration, and future innovations.
FAQs
Q: What is the main invention described in US 5,480,656?
A: The main invention is a method for preparing microcapsules designed for the zero-order release of physiologically active polypeptides over an extended period.
Q: What are the key components of the microcapsules described in the patent?
A: The microcapsules are composed of a biocompatible polymer and the encapsulated polypeptide, designed to release the polypeptide at a constant rate.
Q: How can patent analytics tools help in understanding the value of US 5,480,656?
A: Patent analytics tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and Claim Charts help in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, identifying gaps in coverage, and highlighting future design opportunities.
Q: What is the significance of prior art in the context of US 5,480,656?
A: Prior art references cited in the patent help establish the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention, distinguishing it from earlier methods and technologies.
Q: How does the global patent landscape affect the understanding of US 5,480,656?
A: The global patent landscape involves considering related patents and applications from international intellectual property offices, which can impact licensing, collaboration, and future innovations.
