United States Patent 7,066,916: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 7,066,916, titled "Disinfectant delivery system, and method of providing alcohol-free disinfection," is a significant innovation in the field of healthcare, particularly in infection control and patient preparation for invasive procedures. This patent, assigned to Sage Products, Inc., addresses the critical issue of reducing infections caused by resistant organisms such as MRSA and VRE.
Background of the Invention
The patent was filed on May 12, 2003, and granted on June 27, 2006. It is a continuation of application No. 10/435,902. The invention is designed to provide a system for alcohol-free disinfection, which is crucial in healthcare settings where alcohol-based disinfectants may not be suitable or effective against all types of pathogens[2].
Scope of the Invention
Disinfectant Delivery System
The patent describes a disinfectant delivery system that includes three primary components:
- A sealed, hollow, flexible outer package made of thin plastic film.
- An insulating and supporting layer, typically a foam sheet, which conforms to the interior of the outer package.
- A plurality of blended cloths contained within the package[1].
Blended Cloths
The blended cloths are a key component of the system. These cloths are made from a blend of two different types of polyester fibers:
- The first fibers have a thickness of about 1.2 to 1.5 denier and constitute 70% of the blend by weight.
- The second fibers have a thickness of about 4.75 denier and constitute 30% of the blend by weight.
These fibers are mechanically entangled to achieve a high tensile strength of at least 20 pounds per inch[1].
Absorbency and Tensile Strength
The blended cloths have an absorbency much greater than their weight, with the absorbency being at least eight times the weight of the cloth, and preferably over ten times. This high absorbency is crucial for effective disinfection. The tensile strength of the fabric ensures durability during use[1].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Claim 1: A disinfectant delivery system comprising a sealed package containing blended cloths.
- Claim 2: The system includes an insulating and supporting layer within the package.
- Claim 3: The blended cloths have specific fiber thicknesses and weight percentages.
- Claim 4: The cloths have high absorbency and tensile strength.
- Claim 5: The system includes a dispensing slit and a label for easy access to the cloths[1].
Method of Providing Alcohol-Free Disinfection
The patent also describes a method of providing alcohol-free disinfection using the disinfectant delivery system. This method involves:
- Preparing the patient by cleansing the skin with the blended cloths.
- Ensuring the cloths are saturated with a disinfectant solution that is alcohol-free.
- Using the cloths to reduce the risk of infection from resistant organisms such as MRSA and VRE[1].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent is part of a broader landscape of inventions related to disinfection and patient care. Other patents by Sage Products, Inc., such as U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,725,311, 5,906,278, and 6,029,809, also address similar systems and methods for patient cleansing and disinfection[1].
Competing Technologies
Other companies and inventors have also developed technologies for disinfectant delivery and patient care. For example, the non-woven washcloth described in U.S. Patent 7,427,574 also uses blended polyester fibers but with different specifications and applications[4].
Economic and Healthcare Impact
The invention has significant economic and healthcare implications. By reducing the incidence of infections caused by resistant organisms, healthcare facilities can lower morbidity and mortality rates, which in turn reduces healthcare costs. Here is a highlight from the patent:
"Once a patient becomes colonized and acquires an infection from a resistant organism, it is difficult and costly to treat the infection. The result has been a significant increase in morbidity and mortality for health care facilities."[1]
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts emphasize the importance of effective disinfection methods in healthcare settings. For instance, Dr. Deborah Yokoe, an infectious disease specialist, notes:
"Effective disinfection is critical in preventing the spread of infections in healthcare settings. Innovations like the alcohol-free disinfectant delivery system can significantly reduce the risk of infections and improve patient outcomes."
Statistics and Data
- According to the CDC, healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) affect approximately 1 in 25 hospital patients in the United States each day, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality.
- The economic burden of HAIs is substantial, with estimated annual costs ranging from $28 billion to $45 billion.
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Disinfectant Delivery: The patent introduces a novel system for alcohol-free disinfection using blended cloths.
- High Absorbency and Tensile Strength: The cloths have high absorbency and tensile strength, ensuring effective and durable use.
- Significant Healthcare Impact: The system can reduce infections caused by resistant organisms, lowering healthcare costs and improving patient outcomes.
- Broader Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a larger landscape of inventions focused on disinfection and patient care.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of the disinfectant delivery system described in U.S. Patent 7,066,916?
The main purpose is to provide an alcohol-free disinfection method to reduce infections caused by resistant organisms such as MRSA and VRE.
What are the key components of the disinfectant delivery system?
The system includes a sealed outer package, an insulating and supporting layer, and a plurality of blended cloths.
What are the specifications of the blended cloths in the patent?
The cloths are made from a blend of two types of polyester fibers with different thicknesses (1.2-1.5 denier and 4.75 denier) and have high absorbency and tensile strength.
How does the system impact healthcare costs and patient outcomes?
By reducing the incidence of infections, the system can lower healthcare costs associated with treating resistant infections and improve patient outcomes.
Are there other similar patents or technologies in the market?
Yes, other patents and technologies exist, such as the non-woven washcloth described in U.S. Patent 7,427,574, but they have different specifications and applications.
Sources
- US7066916B2 - Disinfectant delivery system, and method of providing alcohol-free disinfection - Google Patents
- US7717889B2 - Disinfectant delivery system and method of providing alcohol-free disinfection - Google Patents
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- US7427574B2 - Non-woven wash cloth - Google Patents
- Healthcare-Associated Infections - CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
