Details for Patent: 6,433,003

Summary for Patent: 6,433,003

Title:	Method for treating hyperhidrosis in mammals
Abstract:	This invention is directed to methods for treating hyperhidrosis in mammals. Specifically, the methods of this invention involve the topical administration of glycopyrrolate compounds to humans.
Inventor(s):	Bobrove; Arthur M. (Palo Alto, CA), Urman; Jeffrey D. (Palo Alto, CA)
Assignee:
Application Number:	09/552,011
Patent Claim Types: see list of patent claims	Use; Composition;

Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 6,433,003: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

When analyzing a patent, understanding its scope and claims is crucial for determining its validity, enforceability, and potential impact on the market. This article will delve into the details of United States Patent 6,433,003, exploring its claims, the patent landscape, and the tools and methods used for such analyses.

Understanding Patent Claims

Patent claims are the most critical part of a patent application, as they define the scope of the invention and what is protected by the patent. Claims are typically categorized into independent and dependent claims, with independent claims standing alone and dependent claims referring back to an independent claim[3].

Patent 6,433,003 Overview

To begin the analysis, it is essential to identify the key elements of the patent, including its title, abstract, and detailed description. However, since the specific details of Patent 6,433,003 are not provided here, we will discuss the general approach to analyzing such a patent.

Step-by-Step Analysis of Patent Claims

Identify the Independent Claims

Independent claims are the foundation of the patent and define the broadest scope of the invention. These claims should be carefully examined to understand the core elements of the invention.

Analyze Dependent Claims

Dependent claims narrow down the scope of the independent claims by adding additional limitations. These claims can provide insights into the specific embodiments of the invention.

Review the Detailed Description

The detailed description section of the patent provides a comprehensive explanation of the invention, including drawings and examples. This section helps in understanding how the claimed elements are implemented.

Tools for Patent Analysis

Patent Public Search

The USPTO's Patent Public Search tool is a powerful resource for searching and analyzing patents. This tool allows users to search through prior art and understand the broader patent landscape related to the invention[1].

Claim Coverage Matrix

A Claim Coverage Matrix is a useful tool for categorizing patents and claims by their scope concepts. This helps in identifying which patents and claims are actively protecting the intellectual property and where gaps or opportunities exist[3].

Claim Charts

Claim charts generated by tools like ClaimScape® software can help in visually reviewing patent coverage. These charts are interactive and can be used by technical experts to determine the applicability of scope concepts to target products or methods[3].

Patent Landscape Analysis

Global Dossier

The Global Dossier service provides access to the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices. This service is useful for understanding the global patent family and identifying office actions, classifications, and citations related to the patent[1].

International Patent Offices

Searching international patent databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) can help in determining if similar inventions have been patented abroad[1].

Legal Considerations

Patent Eligibility

The patent eligibility of claims under 35 U.S.C. § 101 is a critical legal consideration. The "Alice test" is often used to determine if claims are directed to abstract ideas or if they include elements that transform them into patent-eligible applications[2].

Infringement and Litigation

Understanding the claims and scope of a patent is essential for determining potential infringement. Cases like Contour IP Holding LLC v. GoPro, Inc. highlight the importance of claim construction and the legal battles that can ensue over patent infringement[2].

Practical Applications

Tracking Patents by Claims and Scope Concepts

Categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts helps in managing large numbers of patent claims efficiently. This approach is particularly useful for companies with extensive patent portfolios[3].

Identifying Gaps and Opportunities

Using tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and Claim Charts, companies can identify gaps in their current patent coverage and highlight future design opportunities. This proactive approach can help in maintaining a strong intellectual property position[3].

Case Study: Hypothetical Analysis of Patent 6,433,003

Claim Analysis

• Identify the independent claims of Patent 6,433,003.
• Analyze the dependent claims to understand the specific embodiments.
• Review the detailed description to grasp the implementation of the claimed elements.

Patent Landscape

• Use the Patent Public Search tool to search for prior art related to the invention.
• Utilize the Global Dossier service to understand the global patent family.
• Search international patent databases to check for similar inventions abroad.

Legal Review

• Apply the "Alice test" to determine the patent eligibility of the claims.
• Consider potential infringement scenarios and the legal implications.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the Claims: Carefully analyze the independent and dependent claims to define the scope of the invention.
• Use Advanced Tools: Utilize tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and Claim Charts to manage and analyze large patent portfolios.
• Global Perspective: Search international patent databases to understand the global patent landscape.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure that the claims meet the criteria for patent eligibility and are not infringing on existing patents.

FAQs

Q: What is the importance of independent claims in a patent? A: Independent claims define the broadest scope of the invention and are crucial for understanding what is protected by the patent.

Q: How can I determine if a patent is eligible under 35 U.S.C. § 101? A: Use the "Alice test" to determine if the claims are directed to abstract ideas and if they include elements that transform them into patent-eligible applications.

Q: What tools can I use to analyze the patent landscape? A: Tools such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and international patent databases like EPO and WIPO can be used.

Q: How can I identify gaps in my current patent coverage? A: Use a Claim Coverage Matrix and Claim Charts to categorize patents by claims and scope concepts, helping to identify gaps and opportunities.

Q: Why is it important to search international patent databases? A: Searching international databases helps in determining if similar inventions have been patented abroad, which is crucial for global intellectual property protection.

Sources

1. USPTO - Search for patents. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
2. CONTOUR IP HOLDING LLC v. GOPRO, INC.. Retrieved from https://cafc.uscourts.gov/opinions-orders/22-1654.OPINION.9-9-2024_2381170.pdf
3. Patent Analytics | Intellectual Property Law. Retrieved from https://www.slwip.com/services/patent-analytics/

Drugs Protected by US Patent 6,433,003

Applicant	Tradename	Generic Name	Dosage	NDA	Approval Date	TE	Type	RLD	RS	Patent No.	Patent Expiration	Product	Substance	Delist Req.	Patented / Exclusive Use	Submissiondate