United States Patent 6,962,151: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 6,962,151, titled "Inhalation Nebulizer," is a significant innovation in the field of medical devices, particularly for inhalation therapy. This patent, granted to an inventor for an improved inhalation nebulizer, has several key aspects that define its scope, claims, and position within the broader patent landscape.
Scope of the Patent
Purpose and Functionality
The patent describes an inhalation nebulizer designed to deliver therapeutically effective amounts of pharmaceuticals to a patient's respiratory tract. The device forms an aerosol from liquid pharmaceuticals, ensuring that the particles are of a size that can be easily inhaled[1][5].
Key Components
The nebulizer includes an aerosol generator with a diaphragm that is vibrated by a vibration generator. This mechanism is crucial for creating the aerosol from the liquid pharmaceuticals. The design aims to minimize aerosol losses, enhancing the efficiency of the inhalation therapy[1][5].
Claims of the Patent
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims can be categorized into independent and dependent claims.
- Independent Claims: These claims stand alone and define the broadest scope of the invention. For example, Claim 1 might describe the overall structure and function of the inhalation nebulizer, including the aerosol generator and the vibration mechanism[1].
- Dependent Claims: These claims build upon the independent claims and provide additional details or limitations. For instance, a dependent claim might specify the material of the diaphragm or the frequency of the vibration generator[1].
Claim Construction
The claims are constructed to ensure that the invention is clearly defined and distinguishable from prior art. This involves detailed descriptions of the components, their interactions, and the specific improvements over existing nebulizers[1].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent landscape for inhalation nebulizers includes various prior art references, such as EP 0 170 715 A1, which uses a compressed gas flow to form an aerosol. The US6962151B1 patent differentiates itself by using a vibration generator to vibrate a diaphragm, which is more efficient and reduces aerosol losses[1].
Related Patents and Applications
Other patents and patent applications in the field of inhalation nebulizers often focus on different aspects such as aerosol generation methods, device portability, and user interface improvements. The US6962151B1 patent is part of a broader ecosystem that includes innovations from various manufacturers and researchers[4].
Classification and International Context
International Classification
The patent is classified under A61M15/0001, which pertains to details of inhalators and their constructional features. This classification helps in identifying similar patents and applications globally[1].
Global Patent System
The patent is part of the global patent system, and its family can be traced through services like the Global Dossier, which provides access to file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices. This facilitates a comprehensive view of the patent's international status and related applications[4].
Legal and Administrative Aspects
Patent Infringement Claims
In the event of alleged patent infringement, the claimant must follow specific procedures outlined by the US Department of Defense and the USPTO. This includes providing detailed allegations, requests for compensation, and identification of the alleged infringing item or process[2].
Patent Search and Analysis Tools
Tools like the Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Patent Examination Data System (PEDS) are essential for conducting thorough searches and analyses of patents. These tools help in understanding the patent's position within the broader landscape and identifying potential infringement issues[4].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from US patents, including those related to medical devices like inhalation nebulizers. This dataset helps in analyzing trends and scope measurements of patents, which can be crucial for economic and research purposes[3].
Market Impact
The invention described in US6962151B1 has the potential to significantly impact the market for inhalation nebulizers by offering a more efficient and effective device. This can lead to improved patient outcomes and increased market share for the patent holder.
Key Takeaways
- Efficient Aerosol Generation: The patent describes an inhalation nebulizer that uses a vibration generator to create aerosols, minimizing losses and enhancing therapy efficiency.
- Detailed Claims: The patent includes both independent and dependent claims that clearly define the invention and its improvements over prior art.
- Global Context: The patent is part of the global patent system and can be analyzed using various international patent search tools.
- Legal Considerations: Alleged infringement claims must follow specific procedures, and tools are available for thorough patent searches and analyses.
- Market Impact: The invention has the potential to improve patient outcomes and gain significant market share.
FAQs
What is the primary innovation of US6962151B1?
The primary innovation is the use of a vibration generator to vibrate a diaphragm in the aerosol generator, which improves the efficiency of aerosol formation and reduces losses.
How does this patent differentiate itself from prior art?
It differentiates itself by using a vibration mechanism instead of compressed gas flow, as seen in prior art like EP 0 170 715 A1.
What are the key components of the inhalation nebulizer described in the patent?
The key components include an aerosol generator with a diaphragm and a vibration generator.
How can one search for related patents and applications?
One can use tools like the Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Patent Examination Data System (PEDS) to search for related patents and applications.
What are the implications of this patent for the market?
The patent has the potential to improve patient outcomes and increase market share for the patent holder due to its more efficient and effective aerosol generation method.
Sources
- US6962151B1 - Inhalation nebulizer - Google Patents
- Requirements for filing an administrative claim for patent infringement - Acquisition.gov
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO
- US-20060054166-A1 - Inhalation Nebulizer - Unified Patents
