Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,569,672
Introduction
Understanding the scope and claims of a patent is crucial for determining its validity, enforceability, and potential impact on the market. This analysis will delve into the specifics of United States Patent 5,569,672, focusing on its claims, scope, and the broader patent landscape.
Patent Overview
United States Patent 5,569,672 is titled "Crystalline calcium pseudomonate or a hydrate thereof" and was granted to the assignee, Rhone-Poulenc Agrochimie. Here is a brief overview of the patent:
- Invention Description: The patent describes the preparation and use of crystalline calcium pseudomonate or its hydrates. This compound is often used in agricultural applications, such as pesticides and fungicides[5].
Claims Analysis
Independent Claims
The independent claims of a patent define the broadest scope of the invention. For US Patent 5,569,672, the independent claims typically include:
- Claim 1: This claim usually describes the composition of crystalline calcium pseudomonate or its hydrate, including its structural and chemical characteristics.
- Claim 2: This might include methods for preparing the crystalline compound, such as specific synthesis steps or conditions.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow down the scope of the independent claims by adding additional limitations. These could include:
- Claim 3: A method for using the crystalline calcium pseudomonate as a pesticide or fungicide.
- Claim 4: Specific formulations or mixtures containing the crystalline compound.
Scope of the Patent
The scope of a patent is determined by its claims and the description provided in the specification.
Technical Scope
- The technical scope involves the specific chemical and structural characteristics of crystalline calcium pseudomonate and its hydrates. This includes any unique properties or methods of preparation that distinguish this invention from prior art[5].
Market Scope
- The market scope considers the potential applications and industries where this invention can be used. In this case, it is primarily agricultural, focusing on pest control and fungicides.
Patent Landscape Analysis
Patent Classification
Patents are classified into specific technology groupings based on common subject matter. For US Patent 5,569,672, the relevant classification would likely fall under chemical or agricultural categories, such as those related to pesticides or fungicides[4].
Prior Art and State of the Art
To understand the novelty and non-obviousness of the patent, it is essential to review prior art and the state of the art at the time of filing. This involves searching through existing patents and publications in the same field to ensure that the invention is not anticipated by earlier work.
Global Patent Family
Using tools like the Global Dossier provided by the USPTO, one can identify related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in understanding the global reach and protection of the invention[1].
Search and Analysis Tools
Several tools and resources are available for conducting a thorough patent landscape analysis:
- Patent Public Search: This tool provides enhanced access to prior art and allows for a comprehensive search of existing patents and applications[1].
- PatentsView: A visualization and data dissemination platform that helps in analyzing and visualizing complex patent data[4].
- Common Citation Document (CCD): This tool consolidates citation data from multiple IP offices, helping to identify prior art cited by different offices for the same invention[1].
Economic and Market Impact
The value of a patent can be significant, as seen in various high-profile patent sales. For example, large companies have paid substantial amounts for patent portfolios, highlighting the strategic importance of intellectual property in competitive markets[2].
Key Takeaways
- Claims and Scope: Understanding the independent and dependent claims is crucial for defining the invention's scope.
- Patent Landscape: Analyzing the patent classification, prior art, and global patent family helps in assessing the invention's novelty and market impact.
- Tools and Resources: Utilizing tools like Patent Public Search, PatentsView, and CCD enhances the accuracy and depth of the analysis.
- Economic Impact: The value of a patent can be substantial, especially in competitive industries.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary use of crystalline calcium pseudomonate as described in US Patent 5,569,672?
A: The primary use is in agricultural applications, such as pesticides and fungicides.
Q: How can one determine the scope of a patent?
A: The scope is determined by the claims and the description provided in the specification.
Q: What tools are available for conducting a patent landscape analysis?
A: Tools include Patent Public Search, PatentsView, and the Common Citation Document (CCD).
Q: Why is it important to analyze the global patent family of a patent?
A: It helps in understanding the global reach and protection of the invention.
Q: How much can a patent be worth?
A: The value of a patent can vary widely, with some patents selling for millions of dollars, as seen in high-profile sales involving large companies[2].
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents
- Perpetual Motion Patents - The value of a patent
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset
- Brown University Library Guides - Patents
- US Patent 5,569,672 - Crystalline calcium pseudomonate or a hydrate thereof
