United States Patent 5,590,645: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 5,590,645, titled "Inhalation device," is a significant invention in the field of medical devices, particularly for the delivery of medicaments in powder form. This patent, granted to the inventors, outlines a novel design for an inhalation device that has been widely used in the treatment of respiratory diseases.
Scope of the Patent
The patent describes an inhalation device designed to deliver medicament in the form of a powder. Here are the key aspects of its scope:
- Medicament Pack: The device uses a medicament pack formed from two elongate sheets that define multiple medicament containers spaced along their length. Each container contains a dose of inhalable medicament in powder form[1].
- Flexible Strip: The strip is flexible enough to be wound into a roll, making it convenient for use and storage[1].
- Sealing Mechanism: The lid and base sheets are hermetically but peelably sealed, allowing the user to easily open a container to inhale the medicament[1].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the invention's unique features:
- Claim 1: Describes the inhalation device with a medicament pack comprising an elongate strip formed from a base sheet and a lid sheet, hermetically sealed to define multiple containers[1].
- Claim 2: Details the mechanism for indexing each container to the opening station, ensuring precise and controlled delivery of the medicament[1].
- Claim 3: Specifies the materials used for the lid and base sheets, preferably a plastics/aluminium laminate, and the method of sealing them using heat sealing[1].
Patent Landscape Analysis
To understand the broader context and impact of this patent, a patent landscape analysis is essential.
Defining Scope and Keywords
The analysis begins by defining the technology field and specific keywords related to inhalation devices, medicament delivery systems, and powder inhalers. Key terms might include "inhalation device," "medicament pack," "powder inhaler," and "dry powder inhaler"[3].
Searching and Organizing Patents
Using patent databases such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool, relevant patents are identified and organized based on factors like filing date, assignee, and technology subcategories. Visual aids like heat maps can help in visualizing the distribution of patents over time and by different assignees[4].
Identifying Trends and Key Players
The analysis reveals trends in patent filings, such as an increase in innovations related to dry powder inhalers in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Key players in this field include pharmaceutical companies and medical device manufacturers that have filed numerous patents related to inhalation devices[3].
Analyzing Citations and Evolution
Studying how patents reference each other helps in understanding the impact and development of the technology. For example, US Patent 5,590,645 has been cited in several subsequent patents, indicating its influence on later innovations in the field[3].
Generating Insights for Decisions
The analysis provides practical guidance for strategic decisions, such as evaluating the competitive landscape and potential legal vulnerabilities. It helps inventors and companies to understand the current state of the technology and make informed decisions about their own innovations[3].
Key Players and Innovations
Several key players have contributed significantly to the development of inhalation devices:
- Pharmaceutical Companies: Companies like GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca have developed and patented various inhalation devices, often building upon the foundational concepts outlined in US Patent 5,590,645.
- Medical Device Manufacturers: Companies specializing in medical devices have also innovated in this space, creating more sophisticated and user-friendly inhalation devices.
Impact and Influence
The patent has had a significant impact on the development of inhalation devices:
- Clinical Use: The design described in the patent has been widely adopted in clinical settings for the treatment of respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD.
- Technological Advancements: The patent's concepts have influenced subsequent innovations, leading to more efficient and patient-friendly inhalation devices.
"The medicament pack is formed from two elongate sheets which define a plurality of medicament containers spaced along the length thereof, means being provided for indexing each container in turn to the opening station."[1]
Competitive Landscape
The competitive landscape in the field of inhalation devices is dynamic, with numerous companies and inventors continuously innovating:
- Patent Filings: There has been a steady stream of patent filings related to inhalation devices, indicating ongoing research and development in this area.
- Market Presence: Established pharmaceutical and medical device companies dominate the market, but new entrants are also making significant contributions.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Understanding the legal and regulatory environment is crucial:
- Patent Expiration: The patent has expired, which means that the technology described is now in the public domain. However, subsequent patents may still be in force, protecting newer innovations.
- Regulatory Compliance: Any new device must comply with regulatory standards set by bodies such as the FDA, ensuring safety and efficacy.
Future Trends and Innovations
The future of inhalation devices looks promising with several trends and innovations on the horizon:
- Digital Health Integration: There is a growing trend towards integrating digital health technologies into inhalation devices, such as sensors and mobile apps to monitor usage and efficacy.
- Personalized Medicine: Future devices may be designed to deliver personalized doses based on individual patient needs, leveraging advancements in data analytics and AI.
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Design: US Patent 5,590,645 introduced a novel design for inhalation devices that has been widely adopted.
- Impact on Industry: The patent has significantly influenced the development of subsequent inhalation devices.
- Competitive Landscape: The field is highly competitive with ongoing innovations and new entrants.
- Regulatory Compliance: New devices must comply with regulatory standards.
- Future Trends: Integration with digital health technologies and personalized medicine are key future trends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main innovation described in US Patent 5,590,645?
The main innovation is the design of an inhalation device that uses a medicament pack formed from two elongate sheets with multiple containers, each containing a dose of inhalable medicament in powder form.
Who are the key players in the field of inhalation devices?
Key players include pharmaceutical companies like GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca, as well as medical device manufacturers.
What is the current status of US Patent 5,590,645?
The patent has expired, meaning the technology described is now in the public domain.
How has this patent influenced subsequent innovations?
The patent's concepts have been cited in numerous subsequent patents and have influenced the design of more sophisticated and user-friendly inhalation devices.
What are some future trends in the development of inhalation devices?
Future trends include the integration of digital health technologies and the development of personalized medicine approaches.
Sources Cited
- US5590645A - Inhalation device - Google Patents
- Breath actuated dry powder inhaler and tape dose strip - Patent US-7434579-B2
- How to Do Patent Landscape Analysis - Goldstein Patent Law
- Search for patents - USPTO
