Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 6,585,516
Introduction
The United States Patent 6,585,516, titled "Method and system for computerized visual behavior analysis, training, and planning," is a significant innovation in the field of behavioral modification, particularly in diet and eating habits. This patent, granted to address the need for a more user-friendly and effective system for behavioral change, is crucial for understanding how technology can be harnessed to improve health outcomes.
Patent Overview
This patent describes a system and method designed to analyze, train, and plan behavioral changes, specifically focusing on dietary habits. The system includes several key components:
- User Interface (UI): This is the interaction point between the user and the system, allowing users to input commands and receive visual feedback.
- Meal Database: A database of pre-set meals that conform to predetermined nutritional characteristics.
- Food Database: A comprehensive database of foods with their nutritional information.
- Picture Menus: Visual representations of meals to help users make informed choices.
- Meal Builder: A tool that enables users to create or edit meals based on their preferences and nutritional goals[1].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of this patent is defined by its claims, which outline the specific protections granted to the inventor. Here are the key aspects:
- Behavior Analysis: The system collects and analyzes data on a user's eating tendencies and preferences, comparing this information to set goals. This analysis is crucial for creating an effective eating plan that aligns with the user's instincts and preferences[1].
- Training and Planning: The system provides tools for users to plan and modify their meals, ensuring that the plans are both realistic and effective. This includes the ability to edit or create new meals using the Meal Builder[1].
Claims
The claims of the patent are essential as they define the boundaries of what is protected. Here are some key claims:
- Method for Computerized Behavior Analysis: This includes preparing the Meal and Food Databases, allowing users to choose meals, and providing the option to edit or create new meals based on user preferences[1].
- System Components: The claims cover the UI, Meal Database, Food Database, Picture Menus, and Meal Builder, ensuring that any similar system must significantly differ from these components to avoid infringement[1].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding this invention is complex and involves several key considerations:
Prior Art
The patent addresses the shortcomings of previous systems, such as the Dennison patent, which relied on user input and lacked visual displays. The new system improves upon these by providing a more user-friendly interface and visual aids like Picture Menus[1].
Novelty and Non-Obviousness
For a patent to be granted, the invention must be novel, non-obvious, and useful. This patent meets these criteria by introducing a new method and system that significantly improve upon existing technologies in behavioral modification and meal planning[2].
Examination Process
The examination process for this patent would have involved a thorough review by a patent examiner to ensure that the claims are valid and the invention meets all statutory requirements. This process includes a prior art search to determine if the claimed invention is novel and non-obvious[2].
Impact on Health Outcomes
The system described in this patent has the potential to significantly impact health outcomes by:
- Personalized Plans: By incorporating a user's instinctive eating tendencies and preferences, the system can create highly effective eating plans that reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer[1].
- User Engagement: The use of visual aids like Picture Menus and a user-friendly UI can increase user engagement and compliance with the eating plan.
Industry Relevance
This patent is relevant to several industries, including:
- Health and Wellness: Companies focused on health and wellness can integrate this system into their offerings to provide more personalized and effective dietary plans.
- Technology and Software: Developers of health-related software can use this patent as a reference to create more user-friendly and effective behavioral modification tools.
Future Developments
Given the advancements in technology and the increasing focus on personalized health, this patent lays the groundwork for future innovations:
- AI and Machine Learning: Future systems could incorporate AI and machine learning to further personalize and optimize dietary plans based on user data.
- Mobile and Wearable Devices: Integrating this system with mobile and wearable devices could enhance user engagement and provide real-time feedback.
Key Takeaways
- Innovative System: The patent describes a novel system for behavioral analysis, training, and planning, particularly in dietary habits.
- User-Friendly Interface: The system includes a user-friendly UI and visual aids to enhance user engagement.
- Personalized Plans: The system creates personalized eating plans based on user preferences and nutritional goals.
- Health Impact: The system has the potential to significantly improve health outcomes by reducing the risk of various diseases.
FAQs
Q: What is the main focus of United States Patent 6,585,516?
A: The main focus is on a method and system for computerized visual behavior analysis, training, and planning, specifically aimed at modifying dietary habits.
Q: What are the key components of the system described in the patent?
A: The key components include a User Interface (UI), Meal Database, Food Database, Picture Menus, and a Meal Builder.
Q: How does the system improve upon previous technologies?
A: The system improves upon previous technologies by providing a more user-friendly interface and visual aids like Picture Menus, which were lacking in earlier systems.
Q: What is the significance of the claims in the patent?
A: The claims define the scope of the patent's protection and outline the specific components and methods that are protected.
Q: How can this patent impact health outcomes?
A: The patent can significantly impact health outcomes by creating personalized eating plans that align with users' preferences and reduce the risk of diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Sources
- US6585516B1 - Method and system for computerized visual behavior analysis, training, and planning - Google Patents
- Patents | The Maryland People's Law Library
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- Research and Course Guides: Patent Searching, Advanced: Overview - Clemson University
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) - USAGov
