Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 6,143,769: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Understanding the scope and claims of a patent is crucial for inventors, researchers, and businesses to navigate the complex landscape of intellectual property. This article will delve into the specifics of United States Patent 6,143,769, focusing on its claims, scope, and the broader patent landscape.
Background of the Patent
United States Patent 6,143,769, titled "Process for the preparation of repaglinide," was granted to Novo Nordisk A/S. Repaglinide is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas. The patent describes a specific process for preparing this compound.
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the core of the invention. These claims typically outline the essential steps or components of the process. For example, Claim 1 might describe the overall process of preparing repaglinide, including the specific chemical reactions and conditions involved[5].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims, providing additional details or variations of the process. These claims often specify particular aspects such as the solvents used, temperature ranges, or additional steps that can be included to enhance the process.
Scope of the Patent
Process Description
The patent details a process for preparing repaglinide that involves recrystallization from a solvent mixture, typically ethanol and water. This process is critical for achieving the desired purity and crystalline form of the compound, which is essential for its pharmaceutical application[5].
Chemical Synthesis
The synthesis of repaglinide involves several chemical steps, including the formation of intermediate compounds. The patent specifies the conditions under which these reactions should be carried out to ensure the production of high-quality repaglinide.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
To understand the broader patent landscape, it is essential to identify related patents that may cover similar processes or compounds. Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search or international databases such as PATENTSCOPE can be used to search for patents related to repaglinide and its synthesis[1][4].
Patent Families
Patent families refer to a group of patents related to the same invention but filed in different jurisdictions. For example, the process described in U.S. Patent 6,143,769 may also be covered by patents in Europe, Japan, or other countries. The Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO can help in identifying these related applications across different IP offices[4].
International Patent Databases
Accessing Global Patent Information
Databases such as the European Patent Office's esp@cenet, the Japan Patent Office's database, and WIPO's PATENTSCOPE provide access to international patent information. These resources are invaluable for conducting comprehensive patent searches and understanding the global patent landscape[4].
Machine Translation
Many international patent databases offer machine translation services, which can help in understanding patent documents in different languages. For instance, the European Patent Office and the Japan Patent Office provide machine translations for some languages, facilitating global patent research[1][4].
Economic and Legal Considerations
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can provide insights into the scope and trends of patent claims, including those related to pharmaceutical processes. This dataset, derived from patent grants and applications, can help in analyzing the breadth and depth of patent protection[3].
Small Claims Patent Court
The concept of a small claims patent court, as studied by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), could impact how patent disputes related to processes like the one described in U.S. Patent 6,143,769 are handled. Such a court could provide a more streamlined and cost-effective way to resolve patent infringement cases[2].
Practical Implications
Conducting Preliminary Searches
Before developing or commercializing a process similar to the one described in U.S. Patent 6,143,769, it is crucial to conduct a preliminary patent search. The USPTO provides resources such as the Patent Public Search tool and tutorials on how to conduct these searches effectively[4].
Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs)
Local PTRCs can offer valuable assistance in patent searching and analysis. These centers provide access to various search resources and trained staff who can help navigate the complexities of patent law[4].
Key Takeaways
- Understand the Claims: The claims of a patent define its scope and are essential for determining what is protected.
- Global Landscape: International patent databases are critical for understanding the broader patent landscape.
- Economic Considerations: Analyzing patent claims datasets and understanding legal frameworks can provide valuable insights.
- Practical Searches: Conducting thorough patent searches is vital before developing or commercializing a process.
- Legal Resources: Utilize resources like PTRCs and online tools to navigate patent law effectively.
FAQs
Q: What is the main process described in U.S. Patent 6,143,769?
A: The main process described is the preparation of repaglinide through recrystallization from a solvent mixture, typically ethanol and water.
Q: How can I find related patents to U.S. Patent 6,143,769?
A: Use tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search or international databases such as PATENTSCOPE to search for related patents.
Q: What is the significance of machine translation in patent searches?
A: Machine translation helps in understanding patent documents in different languages, facilitating global patent research.
Q: Where can I get assistance with patent searching?
A: Local Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs) and the USPTO Public Search Facility can provide assistance.
Q: What is the purpose of the Patent Claims Research Dataset?
A: The dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents and applications, helping in analyzing the scope and trends of patent claims.
Sources
- Clemson University Libraries - Advanced Patent Searching: Overview
- Administrative Conference of the United States - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court
- United States Patent and Trademark Office - Patent Claims Research Dataset
- United States Patent and Trademark Office - Search for Patents
- Google Patents - WO2005021524A1 - Process for the preparation of ...
