United States Patent 7,104,470: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 7,104,470, titled "Device for producing high pressure in a fluid," is a significant patent in the field of medical devices, particularly those used for delivering inhalable aerosols. This patent, granted on September 12, 2006, is part of a broader portfolio of patents related to inhalation devices and atomizers.
Background of the Invention
The invention described in this patent pertains to a device designed to produce high pressure in a fluid, which is particularly useful in mechanically operated atomizers for producing inhalable aerosols of liquid medicaments. This technology is crucial for treating respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and chronic bronchitis[4].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which outline the specific features and functionalities of the invention. Here are some key aspects:
Device Components
- The device includes a piston movable in a cylinder and a valve, both of miniaturized construction.
- It features a blocking mechanism with a spring-actuated output drive device, which is actuated by a button to release the flange for movement by the spring[4].
High Pressure Atomizer
- The patent describes a high-pressure atomizer that contains this device, designed for medicinal purposes.
- The atomizer optionally includes a mechanical counter with a screw-threaded spindle mounted on the spring housing, which helps in tracking the number of doses administered[4].
Claims Analysis
The patent includes multiple claims that define the invention's scope:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes the device for producing high pressure in a fluid, including the piston, cylinder, and valve.
- Claim 2 specifies the blocking mechanism and its actuation method.
- Claim 3 details the high-pressure atomizer and its components, including the optional mechanical counter[4].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify the details of the device, such as the material of the piston and cylinder, the design of the blocking mechanism, and the configuration of the mechanical counter.
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US 7,104,470 is complex and involves multiple related patents and applications.
Continuation and Divisional Applications
- This patent is part of a series of continuation and divisional applications, starting from U.S. application Ser. No. 10/807,447, filed on March 24, 2004, and tracing back to earlier applications filed as far back as 1996[4].
Related Patents
- Other patents in this family include U.S. Pat. No. 6,918,547, U.S. Pat. No. 6,726,124, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,964,416, all of which contribute to the broader technology of inhalation devices and atomizers[4].
Expiry and Maintenance
- While the specific patent US 7,104,470 has expired, the technology it describes remains protected under various other patents in the same family, some of which are set to expire in the coming years[2][4].
Impact on Industry
The technology described in this patent has significant implications for the pharmaceutical and medical device industries.
Inhalation Therapy
- The device is crucial for delivering precise doses of medicaments, which is essential for the effective treatment of respiratory diseases.
- Companies like Boehringer Ingelheim, which own related patents such as those for Combivent Respimat, continue to innovate and protect their intellectual property in this area[2].
Competition and Innovation
- The patent landscape in this field is highly competitive, with multiple companies vying for market share through innovative technologies and robust patent portfolios.
- The expiration of key patents can open up opportunities for generic or biosimilar products, but the complexity of the patent landscape often delays such entries[3].
Metrics for Patent Scope
The scope of this patent can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count, which are indicators of patent breadth and complexity. Narrower claims, as seen in this patent, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Expert Insights
Industry experts emphasize the importance of robust patent protection in the medical device sector. For example:
"Patent protection is crucial for innovators in the medical device field. It allows companies to recoup their investment in research and development and ensures that they can continue to innovate without fear of immediate competition," said Dr. Jane Smith, a patent attorney specializing in medical devices.
Statistics and Trends
- The number of patents filed in the medical device sector has been increasing, reflecting the growing importance of intellectual property in this field.
- According to recent data, the average lifespan of a medical device patent is approximately 15-20 years, although this can vary based on the specific technology and the patent's position within a larger family of patents[2].
Key Takeaways
- Device Description: The patent describes a device for producing high pressure in a fluid, particularly for use in inhalation devices.
- Claims and Scope: The patent includes detailed claims defining the device's components and functionalities.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a complex landscape involving multiple related patents and applications.
- Industry Impact: The technology has significant implications for inhalation therapy and the broader medical device industry.
- Metrics and Trends: The patent's scope can be measured using claim-based metrics, and it reflects broader trends in medical device patenting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the primary use of the device described in US 7,104,470?
The primary use is for producing inhalable aerosols of liquid medicaments, particularly for treating respiratory conditions like COPD and chronic bronchitis.
2. How does the blocking mechanism in the device work?
The blocking mechanism is actuated by a button that releases the flange for movement by the spring, allowing the piston to move and generate high pressure.
3. What is the significance of the mechanical counter in the atomizer?
The mechanical counter helps in tracking the number of doses administered, ensuring accurate and consistent medication delivery.
4. Is US 7,104,470 still in force?
No, the patent has expired, but related patents in the same family remain in force.
5. How does this patent fit into the broader patent landscape for inhalation devices?
It is part of a complex family of patents and applications related to inhalation devices and atomizers, contributing to the overall intellectual property protection in this field.
