United States Patent 6,500,814: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 6,500,814, titled "Hormonal Contraceptive," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the area of hormonal contraceptives. This patent, issued to various applicants over the years, involves a combination of hormonal components designed to prevent ovulation and provide contraceptive benefits.
Background and Prior Art
The patent builds upon earlier research and developments in hormonal contraceptives. Prior art includes various patents and publications related to the use of estrogen and gestagen (progestogen) combinations for contraceptive purposes[2].
Scope of the Patent
Hormonal Components
The patent describes a hormonal contraceptive product that includes two primary hormonal components:
- Estrogen: Typically ethinyl estradiol, a synthetic form of estrogen.
- Gestagen (Progestogen): Various progestogenic compounds that work in conjunction with estrogen to inhibit ovulation[2].
Mechanism of Action
The combination of estrogen and gestagen works synergistically to prevent ovulation, thereby providing effective contraception. This mechanism involves the suppression of the luteinizing hormone surge, which is essential for ovulation[2].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Claim 1: Composition
The first claim typically describes the composition of the hormonal contraceptive product, including the specific types and amounts of estrogen and gestagen used[2].
Claim 2: Process of Manufacture
This claim outlines the process for manufacturing the hormonal contraceptive product, including the steps involved in combining the hormonal components and forming the final product[2].
Claim 3: Method of Use
The method of use claim specifies how the hormonal contraceptive product is administered, such as through oral tablets, patches, or other delivery systems[2].
Patent Landscape
Family Applications
The patent is part of a larger family of applications, including international and national filings. These include applications filed in the United States, Europe, Australia, and other jurisdictions[2].
Priority Applications
The patent claims priority from earlier applications, dating back to 1997. This indicates a long-standing development process and multiple iterations of the invention[2].
Cited By and Citing Patents
The patent has been cited by numerous other patents, indicating its influence on subsequent research and development in the field of hormonal contraceptives. Conversely, it also cites several prior patents, reflecting the cumulative nature of innovation in this area[2].
Global Coverage and Jurisdictions
International Filings
The patent has been filed in multiple jurisdictions, including the United States, Europe, Australia, and others. This global coverage is crucial for protecting the intellectual property rights of the inventors across different markets[2].
Country Status
The patent status varies by country, with some jurisdictions having expired or lapsed patents, while others remain active. This highlights the importance of monitoring patent status in different regions[2].
Analytical Tools and Resources
Claim Coverage Matrix
To analyze the scope and claims of this patent, tools like a Claim Coverage Matrix can be used. This matrix helps in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, making it easier to identify gaps or opportunities in the patent landscape[3].
Global Dossier and Common Citation Document
Resources such as the Global Dossier and Common Citation Document provided by the USPTO can be invaluable in tracking related applications and prior art citations across different IP offices. These tools facilitate a comprehensive analysis of the patent family and its global implications[4].
Strategic Implications
Competitive Landscape
Understanding the scope and claims of this patent is crucial for competitors in the hormonal contraceptive market. It helps in identifying potential areas for innovation and avoiding infringement on existing patents[3].
Future Directions
The patent landscape analysis can also highlight future directions for research and development. By identifying gaps in current claim coverage, companies can focus on developing new products or methods that are not yet protected by existing patents[3].
Key Takeaways
- The United States Patent 6,500,814 is a significant patent in the field of hormonal contraceptives.
- It involves a combination of estrogen and gestagen to prevent ovulation.
- The patent has a broad scope, including composition, process of manufacture, and method of use claims.
- It is part of a larger family of applications with global coverage.
- Analytical tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and Global Dossier are essential for understanding the patent landscape.
FAQs
What are the primary hormonal components in the patent?
The primary hormonal components are estrogen (typically ethinyl estradiol) and gestagen (progestogen)[2].
How does the combination of estrogen and gestagen work?
The combination works synergistically to suppress the luteinizing hormone surge, thereby preventing ovulation[2].
What are the different claims in the patent?
The claims include the composition of the product, the process of manufacture, and the method of use[2].
In which jurisdictions has the patent been filed?
The patent has been filed in the United States, Europe, Australia, and other jurisdictions[2].
What tools can be used to analyze the patent landscape?
Tools such as the Claim Coverage Matrix, Global Dossier, and Common Citation Document can be used to analyze the patent landscape[3][4].
Cited Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. US6500814B1 - Hormonal contraceptive. Google Patents.
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. US6500814B1 - Hormonal contraceptive. Google Patents.
- Schwegman Lundberg & Woessner. Patent Analytics. SLWIP.
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. Search for patents. USPTO.
