Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 6,835,739
Introduction to Patent Analysis
When analyzing a patent, it is crucial to understand the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape. This analysis helps in determining the patent's validity, potential infringement, and its position within the industry.
Understanding the Patent
Patent Number and Title
United States Patent 6,835,739 B2, titled "Method and apparatus for transmitting power and data using the human body," was granted on December 28, 2004[5].
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was invented by Zhengi Pan and Ming-Zher Poh, and assigned to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)[5].
Scope of the Patent
Background and Summary
The patent describes a method and apparatus for transmitting power and data using the human body as a conductor. This technology leverages the human body's electrical conductivity to enable wireless communication and power transfer, which can be particularly useful in wearable devices and medical applications[5].
Detailed Description
The invention involves using the human body as a transmission medium for electrical signals. This is achieved through electrodes that are in contact with the body, allowing for the transmission of both power and data. The system includes a transmitter, a receiver, and the human body acting as the conductor[5].
Claims of the Patent
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims are categorized into independent and dependent claims.
- Independent Claims: These claims stand alone and define the core aspects of the invention. For example, Claim 1 describes the method of transmitting power and data using the human body[5].
- Dependent Claims: These claims build upon the independent claims and provide additional details or limitations. For instance, Claim 2 depends on Claim 1 and adds specific details about the electrodes used[5].
Claim Analysis
Each claim must be analyzed to understand the breadth and specificity of the invention. Here are some key points:
- Claim 1: Describes the method of transmitting power and data using the human body.
- Claim 2: Specifies the use of electrodes in contact with the human body.
- Claim 3: Details the receiver and transmitter components involved in the transmission process[5].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and Related Patents
To understand the patent landscape, it is essential to identify prior art and related patents. Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Common Citation Document (CCD) can be used to find relevant patents and applications[1].
International Patent Offices
The invention may also be patented or applied for in other countries. Databases such as Espacenet (European Patent Office), Patentscope (WIPO), and national patent offices like the Japan Patent Office and China National Intellectual Property Administration can provide insights into international filings[1][4].
Classification and Citation Data
The patent's classification codes and citation data can help in identifying similar inventions and understanding the patent's impact. The CCD application consolidates citation data from multiple offices, providing a comprehensive view of the prior art cited for the patent family[1].
Search Resources
USPTO Tools
- Patent Public Search: A powerful tool for searching U.S. patents and published applications.
- Global Dossier: Provides access to file histories and related applications from participating IP offices.
- Common Citation Document (CCD): Consolidates citation data from multiple offices[1].
International Databases
- Espacenet: Offers access to European and international patents.
- Patentscope: Features full-text search of international patent applications received by WIPO[1][4].
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Patent Validity and Infringement
To ensure the patent's validity, it is crucial to conduct thorough searches for prior art and to analyze the claims in light of existing patents. Any potential infringement issues must be addressed by comparing the claims of the patent with existing products or technologies[1].
Regulatory Review
For patents related to medical or human drug products, regulatory review periods and compliance with relevant laws, such as the FD&C Act, must be considered[2].
Economic and Market Impact
Market Position
Understanding the market position of the patent involves analyzing the competitive landscape and the demand for the technology. The Patent Claims Research Dataset by the USPTO can provide insights into patent scope and trends, which can be useful in assessing market impact[3].
Industry Trends
Keeping abreast of industry trends and advancements in related fields can help in evaluating the long-term viability and potential of the patented technology.
Key Takeaways
- Thorough Search: Conduct a comprehensive search using various patent databases to identify prior art and related patents.
- Claim Analysis: Carefully analyze the independent and dependent claims to understand the scope of the invention.
- International Considerations: Check for international filings and citations to get a global perspective on the patent.
- Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Ensure the patent is valid and compliant with all relevant laws and regulations.
- Market Impact: Evaluate the market position and potential of the patented technology.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary purpose of United States Patent 6,835,739?
A: The primary purpose is to describe a method and apparatus for transmitting power and data using the human body as a conductor.
Q: How can I search for related patents and prior art?
A: Use tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and international databases such as Espacenet and Patentscope.
Q: What are the key components of the invention described in the patent?
A: The key components include electrodes in contact with the human body, a transmitter, and a receiver.
Q: How do I determine if a patent is valid?
A: Conduct thorough searches for prior art, analyze the claims, and ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
Q: What databases can I use to find international patent filings related to this invention?
A: Databases such as Espacenet, Patentscope, and national patent offices like the Japan Patent Office and China National Intellectual Property Administration can be used.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Federal Register - Determination of Regulatory Review Period: https://unblock.federalregister.gov
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Harvard Business School Library - Patent search: A comparative table of databases: https://asklib.library.hbs.edu/faq/266950
- United States Patent 6,835,739 B2: https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/11/e7/26/490a76249e9c05/US6835739.pdf
