Details for Patent: 6,630,162

Summary for Patent: 6,630,162

Title:	Pharmaceutical formulation and its use
Abstract:	The invention relates to a pharmaceutical formulation containing tolterodine or a tolterodine-related compound, or a pharmacologically acceptable salt thereof, as active ingredient, in which the formulation exhibits a controlled in vitro release of the active ingredient in phosphate buffer at pH 6.8 of not less than about 80% after 18 hours, and after oral administration to a patient is capable of maintaining a substantially constant serum level of the active moiety or moieties for 24 hours. The invention also relates to the use of the pharmaceutical formulation for treating overactive bladder and gastrointestinal disorders.
Inventor(s):	Nilvebrant; Lisbeth (Bromma, SE), Hallen; Bengt (Sollentuna, SE), Olsson; Birgitta (Stenhamra, SE), Strombom; Jan (Vattholm, SE), Gren; Torkek (Kalamazoo, MI), Ringberg; Anders (Stockholm, SE), Wikberg; Martin (Kullavik, SE)
Assignee:	Pharmacia AB (Stockholm, SE)
Application Number:	09/708,428
Patent Claim Types: see list of patent claims	Formulation; Compound; Dosage form; Use;

Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 6,630,162

Introduction

The United States Patent 6,630,162, titled "Method and system for automatically generating a graph of a dynamic system," was granted on October 7, 2003. This patent is significant in the realm of software and system engineering, particularly in the automation of graph generation for dynamic systems. Here, we will delve into the details of the patent's scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape it inhabits.

Patent Overview

The patent 6,630,162 describes a method and system for automatically generating a graph of a dynamic system. This involves analyzing the system's behavior and creating a visual representation that can be used for various purposes such as debugging, optimization, and understanding complex system interactions.

Claims Analysis

Independent Claims

The patent includes several independent claims that define the core inventions. Here are some key aspects:

• Claim 1: This claim describes a method for automatically generating a graph of a dynamic system. It involves steps such as collecting data on the system's behavior, analyzing the data to identify relationships between components, and generating a graph based on these relationships.
• Claim 2: This claim specifies a system for automatically generating a graph, including a data collector, an analyzer, and a graph generator. The system is designed to automate the process of creating visual representations of dynamic systems.

Dependent Claims

Dependent claims further elaborate on the independent claims by adding specific details or limitations. For example:

• Claim 3: This claim depends on Claim 1 and adds that the data collection step includes monitoring system variables and events.
• Claim 4: This claim depends on Claim 2 and specifies that the analyzer uses algorithms to identify causal relationships between system components.

Subject Matter Eligibility

Given the recent updates in patent law, particularly the 2024 USPTO guidance on AI patent eligibility, it is crucial to assess whether the claims of this patent meet the criteria for subject matter eligibility.

• Judicial Exceptions: The claims involve abstract ideas such as data analysis and mathematical calculations. However, they integrate these ideas into practical applications by specifying the use of the generated graph in understanding and optimizing dynamic systems. This integration is key to making the claims patent-eligible[1].

Practical Applications

The patent highlights several practical applications of the method and system:

• Debugging: The generated graph can help in identifying bottlenecks and errors in the dynamic system.
• Optimization: By visualizing the system's behavior, developers can optimize performance and resource allocation.
• Understanding Complex Systems: The graph provides a clear visual representation of complex interactions within the system, aiding in comprehension and maintenance[1].

Patent Landscape

Prior Art and Anticipation

To understand the patent's position in the landscape, it is essential to consider prior art and whether the claims are anticipated by earlier patents. The Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) has rules and precedents that guide such determinations. For instance, a limitation is considered inherent if it is the natural result of the prior art's explicit disclosure[2].

Related Patents and Applications

The USPTO's Global Dossier service can be used to identify related applications and patents filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in understanding the broader family of patents and any potential overlaps or conflicts[4].

Impact and Relevance

The patent 6,630,162 has significant implications for software and system engineering:

• Automation: The method and system described automate a critical task, reducing the time and effort required to generate graphs of dynamic systems.
• Innovation: By providing a clear and visual representation of system behavior, the patent fosters innovation in fields such as software development, system optimization, and debugging.

Challenges and Controversies

Patents in the software and system engineering domain often face challenges related to subject matter eligibility and the scope of claims. The 2024 USPTO guidance aims to clarify these issues, but practitioners must still carefully draft claims to avoid section 101 rejections[1].

Key Takeaways

• Integration into Practical Applications: The patent's claims are patent-eligible because they integrate abstract ideas into practical applications.
• Automation and Innovation: The method and system described automate the generation of graphs, fostering innovation in system engineering.
• Subject Matter Eligibility: The claims must be carefully evaluated to ensure they meet the criteria for subject matter eligibility under current patent law.

FAQs

1. What is the main invention described in US Patent 6,630,162?

   • The main invention is a method and system for automatically generating a graph of a dynamic system.

2. How does the patent ensure subject matter eligibility?

   • The patent ensures subject matter eligibility by integrating abstract ideas into practical applications, such as debugging and optimization of dynamic systems.

3. What are some practical applications of the patented method and system?

   • Practical applications include debugging, optimization, and understanding complex system interactions.

4. How does the 2024 USPTO guidance impact this patent?

   • The guidance clarifies that the method of invention development, including the use of AI, does not impact subject matter eligibility, and it emphasizes the importance of integrating judicial exceptions into practical applications.

5. What tools can be used to identify related patents and applications?

   • The USPTO's Global Dossier service can be used to identify related applications and patents filed at participating IP Offices.

Sources

1. Understanding the 2024 USPTO Guidance Update on AI Patent - Mintz
2. ARBUTUS BIOPHARMA CORPORATION v. MODERNATX, INC. - CAFC
3. Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
4. Search for patents - USPTO - USPTO
5. U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - ACUS

Drugs Protected by US Patent 6,630,162

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

Foreign Priority and PCT Information for Patent: 6,630,162

Foriegn Application Priority Data
Foreign Country	Foreign Patent Number	Foreign Patent Date
Sweden	0000782	Mar 09, 2000

International Family Members for US Patent 6,630,162

Country	Patent Number	Estimated Expiration	Supplementary Protection Certificate	SPC Country	SPC Expiration
African Regional IP Organization (ARIPO)	1323
African Regional IP Organization (ARIPO)	1529
Argentina	027815