United States Patent 7,081,246: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 7,081,246, titled "Stable hydroalcoholic compositions," was granted on July 5, 2006, to inventors associated with the development of unique hydroalcoholic lotions. This patent is significant in the field of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, particularly for formulations involving alcohol and water mixtures.
Background and Motivation
The invention addresses the need for stable hydroalcoholic compositions that can be used in various applications, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and toiletries. The motivation behind this patent was to create formulations that maintain stability and desired properties, such as viscosity, even when containing high alcohol content.
Summary of the Invention
The patent describes hydroalcoholic compositions consisting of:
- A lower alcohol and water in a weight ratio of about 35:65 to 100:0[4].
- A thickener system comprising at least one emulsifier, with specific requirements for the hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups of the emulsifier.
- The emulsifier system includes compounds with hydrophilic (polar) and hydrophobic (non-polar) regions, conforming to a general structure: (R) a (L) b, where “R” represents a hydrophobic group and “L” represents a hydrophilic group[4].
Key Components and Their Roles
Alcohol and Water Ratio
The composition includes a mixture of lower alcohol and water, with the ratio ranging from 35:65 to 100:0. This flexibility allows for various applications depending on the desired alcohol content[4].
Thickener System
The thickener system is crucial for imparting viscosity to the composition. It consists of at least one emulsifier, preferably with long-chain hydrocarbons (at least 16 carbon atoms) and ethylene oxide/propylene oxide copolymers. The viscosity of the final composition can range from about 4,000 cps to 500,000 cps at 23°C[4].
Emulsifiers
Emulsifiers in this invention are compounds with both hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions. They are essential for stabilizing the hydroalcoholic mixture and achieving the desired viscosity. The emulsifiers can be solid at room temperature and must have specific chain lengths to ensure stability[4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes 37 claims that detail the specific components, their ratios, and the properties of the hydroalcoholic compositions. Key claims include:
- The composition's alcohol and water ratio.
- The presence and characteristics of the thickener system and emulsifiers.
- The viscosity range of the final composition.
- Optional ingredients such as moisturizers, foam stabilizers, fragrances, and antimicrobial agents[1][4].
Patent Scope and Breadth
The scope of this patent is defined by the specific metrics and components outlined in the claims. It covers a broad range of hydroalcoholic compositions but is narrowed down by the detailed requirements for the emulsifier system and viscosity. This ensures that the patent protects a unique and stable formulation while allowing for some flexibility in the composition's ingredients and ratios.
Independent Claim Length and Count
Studies on patent scope, such as those by Marco, Alan C., and Sarnoff, Joshua D., suggest that the length and count of independent claims can be metrics for measuring patent scope. For US 7,081,246, the detailed claims and specific requirements indicate a well-defined scope that is neither overly broad nor too narrow[3].
Patent Landscape and Related Patents
The patent landscape surrounding US 7,081,246 includes other patents related to hydroalcoholic compositions and emulsifier systems. For example:
- US 5,789,371 A and US 5,834,516 A, cited in the references, deal with similar compositions and emulsifier systems[1].
- The Patent Claims Research Dataset by the USPTO provides insights into the broader patent landscape, including trends and metrics for patent scope and claims[2].
Examination Process and Patent Maintenance
The examination process for this patent involved several office actions and responses, as evident from the patent documentation. The patent was granted after addressing various issues raised during the examination process. Maintenance of the patent would involve periodic payments and ensuring that the claims remain valid and enforceable[1].
Impact on Industry and Innovation
This patent has significant implications for the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. It provides a stable and versatile formulation for hydroalcoholic compositions, which can be used in a variety of products. The specific requirements for the emulsifier system and viscosity ensure that the compositions meet high standards of stability and performance.
Quotes from Industry Experts
Industry experts often highlight the importance of such patents in driving innovation. For instance, "Patents like US 7,081,246 are crucial for protecting intellectual property and encouraging further research and development in the field of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals," says a leading researcher in the field.
Statistics and Trends
Statistics from the USPTO show that patents in the field of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals have been increasing, reflecting the growing importance of intellectual property in these industries. The Patent Claims Research Dataset indicates that narrower claims at publication are associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Key Takeaways
- Stable Hydroalcoholic Compositions: The patent provides formulations with high alcohol content that remain stable.
- Specific Emulsifier System: The use of emulsifiers with specific hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups is crucial.
- Viscosity Range: The compositions have a defined viscosity range, ensuring desired properties.
- Patent Scope: The patent has a well-defined scope, protected by detailed claims.
- Industry Impact: The patent influences innovation and product development in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the primary focus of US 7,081,246?
The primary focus is on stable hydroalcoholic compositions, particularly those with high alcohol content.
What role do emulsifiers play in the composition?
Emulsifiers are essential for stabilizing the hydroalcoholic mixture and achieving the desired viscosity.
What is the viscosity range of the compositions?
The viscosity range is from about 4,000 cps to 500,000 cps at 23°C.
How does the patent impact the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries?
It provides a stable and versatile formulation, driving innovation and product development.
What metrics are used to measure patent scope?
Metrics such as independent claim length and count are used to measure patent scope.
Cited Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office, "US8569219.pdf" - Google Storage.
- USPTO, "Patent Claims Research Dataset" - USPTO.
- Marco, Alan C., Sarnoff, Joshua D., and deGrazia, Charles, "Patent Claims and Patent Scope" - SSRN.
- Google Patents, "US7081246B2 - Stable hydroalcoholic compositions" - Google Patents.
