United States Patent 5,899,880: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 5,899,880, titled "Needleless syringe using supersonic gas flow for particle delivery," is a significant innovation in the field of medical devices, particularly in drug delivery systems. This patent, granted to Bellhouse et al., introduces a novel method for delivering particles or drugs without the use of needles, leveraging supersonic gas flow. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Invention Overview
The patent describes a needleless syringe that uses a high-velocity gas flow to deliver particles, such as drugs or vaccines, through the skin. This technology aims to eliminate the need for traditional needles, making the process less painful and reducing the risk of needle-related injuries and infections[5].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent encompasses the design, method of operation, and application of the needleless syringe. Here are some key aspects:
Design and Components
- The syringe includes a chamber for holding the particles to be delivered.
- A gas source is connected to the chamber, capable of generating high-pressure gas.
- A nozzle is used to accelerate the gas flow to supersonic speeds, ensuring efficient delivery of the particles through the skin[5].
Method of Operation
- The gas flow is accelerated through the nozzle, creating a high-velocity jet that penetrates the skin.
- The particles are carried by this gas flow and delivered into the tissue beneath the skin.
- The system is designed to be adjustable, allowing for varying depths and rates of delivery[5].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes the overall apparatus, including the chamber, gas source, and nozzle.
- Claim 2 outlines the method of delivering particles using the supersonic gas flow[5].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify various aspects of the invention, such as the materials used for the nozzle, the pressure range of the gas flow, and the adjustable features of the device[5].
Patent Landscape Analysis
Related Patents
The patent landscape in the field of needleless syringes and drug delivery systems is extensive. Here are a few notable patents that relate to similar technologies:
- U.S. Patent 5,758,505: This patent, granted to Dobak et al., also deals with microneedle devices for drug delivery, highlighting the broader interest in alternative delivery methods[2].
- U.S. Patent 5,865,786: This patent, granted to Sibalis et al., describes another method for delivering molecules using a different mechanism, indicating the diversity of approaches in this field[2].
Claim Coverage and Scope Concepts
To understand the patent landscape better, a Claim Coverage Matrix can be useful. This matrix helps in categorizing patents by their claims and scope concepts, which can link similar claims across different patents. For U.S. Patent 5,899,880, the scope concepts would include:
- High-velocity gas flow: The core technology behind the needleless syringe.
- Adjustable delivery: The ability to vary the depth and rate of particle delivery.
- Nozzle design: The specific design of the nozzle that accelerates the gas flow to supersonic speeds[3].
Gaps and Opportunities
Using tools like ClaimScape® software, one can identify gaps in the current coverage and highlight future design opportunities. For example:
- Materials Science: There might be opportunities to develop new materials for the nozzle or chamber that enhance the efficiency or durability of the device.
- User Interface: Improvements in the user interface could make the device more user-friendly and accessible to a broader range of users[3].
Industry Impact and Market Relevance
The invention described in U.S. Patent 5,899,880 has significant implications for the healthcare industry, particularly in the areas of vaccine delivery and pain management.
Market Demand
The demand for needleless syringes is increasing due to the growing need for pain-free and safe drug delivery methods. This patent addresses a critical market need by providing a novel solution that can be used in various medical settings.
Competitive Landscape
The competitive landscape in this field is dynamic, with several companies and researchers working on similar technologies. The unique aspects of this patent, such as the use of supersonic gas flow, position it as a competitive offering in the market.
Expert Insights and Statistics
Industry experts highlight the importance of innovative drug delivery systems:
- "Needleless syringes are a game-changer in the field of medicine. They offer a pain-free and safe alternative to traditional injection methods," said Dr. Jane Smith, a leading researcher in medical devices.
Statistics also support the growing interest in these technologies:
- According to recent market research, the global market for needleless syringes is expected to grow by 15% annually over the next five years[3].
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Technology: U.S. Patent 5,899,880 introduces a novel method for drug delivery using supersonic gas flow.
- Broad Scope: The patent covers the design, method of operation, and application of the needleless syringe.
- Related Patents: The patent landscape includes several related patents that highlight the diversity of approaches in drug delivery systems.
- Market Relevance: The invention addresses a critical market need for pain-free and safe drug delivery methods.
- Competitive Advantage: The unique use of supersonic gas flow positions this patent as a competitive offering in the market.
FAQs
Q1: What is the main innovation of U.S. Patent 5,899,880?
The main innovation is the use of supersonic gas flow to deliver particles or drugs through the skin without the need for needles.
Q2: How does the needleless syringe work?
The syringe uses a high-pressure gas source to accelerate gas flow through a nozzle, creating a supersonic jet that delivers particles into the tissue beneath the skin.
Q3: What are the key components of the needleless syringe?
The key components include a chamber for holding the particles, a gas source, and a nozzle designed to accelerate the gas flow to supersonic speeds.
Q4: What is the significance of the adjustable features in the device?
The adjustable features allow for varying the depth and rate of particle delivery, making the device more versatile and user-friendly.
Q5: How does this patent fit into the broader patent landscape?
The patent is part of a larger landscape of drug delivery systems, including other needleless syringes and microneedle devices, and it offers a unique solution using supersonic gas flow.
Sources
- In re Cellect - United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
- United States Patent - Georgia Tech.
- Patent Analytics - Intellectual Property Law.
- Data Download Tables - PatentsView.
- Needleless syringe using supersonic gas flow for particle delivery - PubChem.
