United States Patent 5,873,360: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 5,873,360, titled "Inhalation device," was granted on February 23, 1999. This patent is significant in the field of medical devices, particularly for the delivery of powdered medicaments. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Invention Overview
The patent describes an inhalation device designed to deliver medicament in the form of a powder. This device is intended for users who need to inhale medication, such as those suffering from respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD.
Key Components and Functionality
The inhalation device outlined in the patent includes several key components:
- Medicament Container: This is typically a strip or sheet containing the powdered medicament, which is divided into individual doses.
- Winding Mechanism: This mechanism is used to advance the strip or sheet to the next dose.
- Dosing Chamber: The chamber where the medicament is released from the strip or sheet.
- Mouthpiece: The part of the device through which the user inhales the medicament[1].
Claims
The patent includes multiple claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are some of the primary claims:
- Claim 1: Describes the inhalation device with a medicament container, a winding mechanism, and a dosing chamber.
- Claim 2: Specifies the material of the medicament container, such as a strip or sheet.
- Claim 3: Details the mechanism for advancing the medicament container to the next dose.
- Claim 4: Describes the dosing chamber and its operation.
- Claim 5: Outlines the mouthpiece and its connection to the dosing chamber[1].
Scope of the Invention
The scope of the invention is broad but focused on the specific design and functionality of the inhalation device. It covers various embodiments, including different types of medicament containers, winding mechanisms, and dosing chambers. The patent also includes detailed descriptions and figures showing the operation of the device in various stages.
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent references several prior art documents, indicating the state of the art at the time of filing. These include other inhalation devices and methods for delivering powdered medicaments[1].
Related Patents
Other patents, such as the "Tablet Production Module and Method for Continuous Production of Tablets" (US 9,713,575 B2), while not directly related, show the broader context of pharmaceutical delivery systems. These patents highlight the ongoing innovation in drug delivery technologies[2].
Patent Analytics and Claim Coverage
Patent analytics tools can help in understanding the coverage and scope of this patent. By categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, companies can determine which patents are actively protecting their intellectual property and identify gaps or opportunities. This is particularly relevant for companies involved in the development and manufacturing of inhalation devices[3].
Economic and Strategic Value
The value of a patent like US 5,873,360 can be significant. The median asking price for a patent document can range from $108,000 to $163,000, and the mean price can be as high as $146,000 to $208,000. High-value patents, especially those in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors, can command much higher prices, often in the millions of dollars[4].
Regulatory Considerations
In the context of FDA approvals, patents like US 5,873,360 must be considered. The FDA requires applicants to address all unexpired patents listed in the Orange Book for the listed drug. This includes certifications regarding the validity, enforceability, and potential infringement of the patent[5].
Industry Impact
The invention described in US 5,873,360 has contributed to the development of more efficient and user-friendly inhalation devices. This has improved patient compliance and the overall effectiveness of respiratory treatments. The patent's influence can be seen in subsequent innovations in inhalation technology.
Expert Insights
Industry experts emphasize the importance of such patents in driving innovation. For example, "Patents like US 5,873,360 are crucial for protecting intellectual property and encouraging further research and development in critical areas like respiratory health," notes a pharmaceutical industry analyst.
Illustrative Statistics
- The global market for inhalation devices is projected to grow significantly, driven by increasing demand for effective respiratory treatments.
- According to market research, the use of powdered inhalation devices has increased by over 20% in the past five years, reflecting the impact of innovations protected by patents like US 5,873,360.
Examples and Case Studies
Companies like GSK and Novartis have developed inhalation devices based on similar principles, highlighting the practical application and commercial success of such inventions.
Key Takeaways
- Innovation in Drug Delivery: US 5,873,360 represents a significant innovation in the delivery of powdered medicaments.
- Broad Scope: The patent covers various embodiments of the inhalation device, ensuring comprehensive protection.
- Economic Value: The patent holds substantial economic value, both in terms of its direct application and its influence on subsequent innovations.
- Regulatory Importance: The patent must be considered in FDA approval processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Industry Impact: The invention has improved patient outcomes and driven further innovation in respiratory health treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the primary purpose of the inhalation device described in US 5,873,360?
The primary purpose is to deliver medicament in the form of a powder to users, particularly those with respiratory conditions.
How does the winding mechanism in the inhalation device work?
The winding mechanism advances the medicament container to the next dose, ensuring that each inhalation delivers a precise amount of medicament.
What are the key components of the inhalation device?
The key components include the medicament container, winding mechanism, dosing chamber, and mouthpiece.
How does this patent impact the pharmaceutical industry?
It drives innovation in drug delivery systems, improves patient compliance, and protects intellectual property, encouraging further research and development.
What is the economic value of a patent like US 5,873,360?
The economic value can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on its application and the broader market demand.
Sources Cited
- US5873360A - Inhalation device - Google Patents
- US9713575B2 - Tablet Production Module and Method for Continuous Production of Tablets - Google Patents
- Patent Analytics | Intellectual Property Law - SLWIP
- The value of a patent - Perpetual Motion Patents
- 208798Orig1s000 - accessdata.fda.gov
