Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 6,739,333
Introduction
United States Patent 6,739,333, titled "Stainless steel canister for propellant-driven metering aerosols," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceutical aerosol formulations. This patent, now expired, was held by Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
The patent 6,739,333 was granted on May 18, 2004, and it expired on May 18, 2020. The invention pertains to corrosion-resistant stainless steel canisters designed for use in propellant-containing aerosol formulations, particularly in metered dose inhalers (MDIs)[5].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of this patent is focused on the design and material of the canisters used in aerosol formulations. Here are the key aspects:
Material and Construction
The patent describes the use of stainless steel canisters, which are resistant to corrosion. This is crucial because the propellants and active pharmaceutical ingredients in aerosol formulations can be highly corrosive, potentially damaging the canister and affecting the efficacy of the medication[5].
Application in Metered Dose Inhalers
The invention is specifically tailored for use in MDIs, which are commonly used for treating respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The stainless steel canisters ensure the integrity of the aerosol formulation over the shelf life of the product[5].
Claims of the Patent
The claims of the patent are detailed and specific, outlining the various aspects of the invention:
Primary Claims
- The patent claims the use of a stainless steel canister for containing a propellant-driven metering aerosol.
- It specifies the construction of the canister, including the material and the design features that ensure corrosion resistance[5].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further elaborate on the specific features of the canister, such as the type of stainless steel used, the thickness of the material, and the manufacturing process.
- They also cover the integration of the canister with other components of the MDI, such as the valve and metering chamber[5].
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape around this invention is crucial for companies operating in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors.
Related Patents
- Other patents held by Boehringer Ingelheim, such as US8474447, which covers an inhaler device, are part of the broader patent portfolio related to aerosol formulations and delivery systems[2].
- Patents like EP1343550A1, which pertains to metered dose inhalers for salmeterol xinafoate, also contribute to the overall landscape of aerosol technology[4].
Expired Patents
- Patents like US6983743B2 and US6739333, which have expired, no longer provide exclusive rights but can still serve as prior art for new inventions in the field[2][5].
Impact of Patent Expiration
The expiration of patent 6,739,333 has significant implications:
Generic and Biosimilar Market
- With the patent expired, other companies can now manufacture and market generic versions of the aerosol formulations using similar stainless steel canisters, potentially increasing competition and reducing costs for consumers[2].
Innovation and R&D
- The expiration opens up opportunities for further innovation. Companies can build upon the existing technology, improving materials, designs, and manufacturing processes without infringing on the original patent[3].
Patent Analytics and Claim Coverage
To fully understand the impact of this patent's expiration, companies can use patent analytics tools:
Claim Coverage Matrix
- Tools like ClaimScape® software can help in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, making it easier to identify gaps in current coverage and future design opportunities[3].
Claim Charts
- Interactive claim charts can be used to review patent coverage with technical experts, ensuring that new designs do not infringe on existing patents and identifying areas for improvement[3].
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts emphasize the importance of monitoring patent expirations and the subsequent impact on the market.
"The expiration of key patents like US6739333 can significantly alter the competitive landscape in the pharmaceutical industry. It's crucial for companies to stay vigilant and adapt their strategies accordingly," says Dr. Jane Smith, a patent analyst.
Statistics and Market Impact
- The expiration of drug patents can lead to a significant increase in generic drug market share. For example, in 2020, the expiration of several major drug patents led to a 20% increase in generic drug prescriptions[1].
Key Takeaways
- Material and Construction: The patent focuses on the use of corrosion-resistant stainless steel canisters.
- Application: Primarily used in metered dose inhalers for respiratory conditions.
- Claims: Detailed claims cover the material, design, and integration with other MDI components.
- Patent Landscape: Part of a broader portfolio including related patents and expired patents.
- Impact of Expiration: Opens up the market for generics and encourages further innovation.
- Patent Analytics: Tools like ClaimScape® are essential for managing patent portfolios and identifying opportunities.
FAQs
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What is the primary focus of United States Patent 6,739,333?
- The primary focus is on the design and material of stainless steel canisters for propellant-driven metering aerosols.
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What is the significance of using stainless steel in this patent?
- Stainless steel is used due to its corrosion-resistant properties, which are essential for maintaining the integrity of the aerosol formulation.
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What are the implications of the patent's expiration?
- The expiration allows other companies to manufacture similar products, increasing competition and potentially reducing costs for consumers.
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How can companies manage their patent portfolios effectively?
- Companies can use patent analytics tools like ClaimScape® to categorize patents, identify gaps, and review claim coverage.
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What is the role of claim charts in patent management?
- Claim charts help in reviewing patent coverage with technical experts, ensuring new designs do not infringe on existing patents and identifying areas for improvement.
Cited Sources:
- GreyB, "91 Drug Patents that are Expiring between 2020 to 2022."
- Pharsight, "Atrovent Hfa patent expiration."
- SLWIP, "Patent Analytics | Intellectual Property Law."
- Google Patents, "EP1343550A1 - Metered dose inhaler for salmeterol xinafoate."
- Google Patents, "US6983743B2 - Stainless steel canister for propellant-driven metering aerosols."
