United States Patent 6,716,814: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 6,716,814, titled "Enhancing solubility of iron amino acid chelates and iron proteinates," is a significant patent in the field of nutritional supplements and agricultural chemistry. This patent, granted to inventors associated with Albion International, Inc., addresses a critical issue in the formulation of iron supplements by improving their solubility.
Background and Context
Iron amino acid chelates and iron proteinates are essential compounds used in nutritional supplements and animal feed to provide bioavailable iron. However, these compounds often suffer from poor solubility, which can limit their effectiveness and stability. The invention described in this patent aims to overcome this limitation.
Patent Claims
The patent includes several key claims that define the scope of the invention:
Method of Enhancing Solubility
The primary claim involves a method of enhancing the solubility of iron amino acid chelates and iron proteinates by admixing an effective amount of an organic solubilizing agent[2].
Components and Composition
The patent specifies the use of particular solubilizing agents, such as citric acid, tartaric acid, or other organic acids, which are mixed with the iron chelates or proteinates to improve their solubility[2].
Application and Uses
The claims also cover various applications of the enhanced solubility compounds, including their use in nutritional supplements, pharmaceuticals, and animal feed.
Scope of the Patent
The scope of this patent is defined by its claims and the specific methods and compositions described. Here are some key aspects:
Independent Claims
The patent includes independent claims that outline the core method of enhancing solubility. These claims are crucial as they define the novel and non-obvious aspects of the invention[2].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the details of the method, including the types of solubilizing agents and the conditions under which they are mixed with the iron compounds. These claims provide additional protection by covering various embodiments of the invention.
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US 6,716,814 is complex and involves several related patents and technologies.
Related Patents
Other patents, such as Canadian Patent 2645178, also deal with improving the solubility of amino acid mineral chelates. These patents often overlap in their claims and methods, indicating a competitive and innovative field[4].
Patent Ownership and Licensing
The patent is currently owned by Albion International, Inc., which has a history of enforcing its intellectual property rights. Previous owners and inventors include R. Charles Thompson, Clayton Ericson, and Stephen Ashmead[4].
Litigation and Enforcement
There have been legal actions related to this patent, such as the case documented in the litigation documents where Albion alleged infringement of its patents, including US 6,716,814[5].
Examination and Grant Process
The patent went through a standard examination process before being granted. The process involved narrowing the scope of the claims to ensure they were novel, non-obvious, and enabled the invention as described.
Claim Length and Count
Research on patent scope suggests that the examination process often narrows the scope of patent claims, reducing both claim length and count. This was likely the case for US 6,716,814, as the final granted claims would have been refined during the examination process[3].
Impact on Industry
The invention described in this patent has significant implications for the nutritional supplement and agricultural industries.
Improved Bioavailability
By enhancing the solubility of iron amino acid chelates and iron proteinates, the patent contributes to the development of more effective nutritional supplements and animal feed. This can lead to better health outcomes and increased efficiency in agricultural practices.
Competitive Advantage
Companies holding such patents can gain a competitive advantage by offering products with improved solubility, which can be a key differentiator in a crowded market.
Future Developments and Challenges
As the patent landscape continues to evolve, there are several future developments and challenges to consider:
Expiration and Maintenance
The patent has expired, which means that the technology is now in the public domain. However, during its active period, maintaining the patent required regular payments and compliance with patent office regulations[4].
Innovation and Improvement
The expiration of this patent opens the door for further innovation and improvement in the field. New patents and technologies may build upon or improve the methods described in US 6,716,814.
Key Takeaways
- Improved Solubility: The patent provides a method to enhance the solubility of iron amino acid chelates and iron proteinates.
- Specific Claims: The patent includes detailed claims about the method and components used.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape involving related patents and technologies.
- Industry Impact: The invention has significant implications for nutritional supplements and agricultural practices.
- Future Developments: The expiration of the patent allows for further innovation and improvement.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of US Patent 6,716,814?
The main purpose of US Patent 6,716,814 is to describe a method for enhancing the solubility of iron amino acid chelates and iron proteinates.
Who are the inventors of this patent?
The inventors of this patent include R. Charles Thompson, Clayton Ericson, and Stephen Ashmead.
What are the key components used to enhance solubility?
The key components used to enhance solubility include organic solubilizing agents such as citric acid and tartaric acid.
What is the current status of the patent?
The patent has expired, meaning the technology is now in the public domain.
How does this patent impact the nutritional supplement industry?
This patent contributes to the development of more effective nutritional supplements by improving the solubility and bioavailability of iron compounds.
Cited Sources:
- US6716814B2 - Enhancing solubility of iron amino acid chelates and iron proteinates - Google Patents
- Patent 6,716,814 drug patent claims, expiration, and FTO - Drug Patent Watch
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- Patent 2645178 Summary - Canadian Patents Database
- Case 2:08-cv-00515-DB Document 25 Filed 01/14/09 Page 1 of 18 - Insight.RPXCorp.com
