United States Patent 7,988,001: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 7,988,001, titled "Container provided with a pressure equalization opening," is a significant patent that addresses a specific innovation in container design. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication Details
- Publication Number: US7988001B2
- Priority Date: April 7, 2000
- Filing Date: July 17, 2007
- Authority: United States[4].
Invention Description
The patent describes a container comprising an outer container and an inner bag, with a pressure equalization opening. This design ensures that the pressure inside the container remains balanced, preventing issues such as deformation or bursting. The container is typically bottle-shaped and includes a projection on the bottle neck that forms the pressure equalization opening[4].
Scope of the Invention
Key Components
- Outer Container: The external shell of the container.
- Inner Bag: A flexible lining inside the outer container.
- Pressure Equalization Opening: A critical feature that maintains pressure balance within the container.
- Bottle Neck and Projection: Specific design elements that facilitate the pressure equalization opening[4].
Functional Benefits
The invention provides several functional benefits, including:
- Pressure Balance: Prevents the container from deforming or bursting due to internal pressure changes.
- Durability: Enhances the overall durability of the container by reducing stress on the material.
- Versatility: Can be applied to various types of containers, making it a versatile solution[4].
Claims
Claim Structure
The patent includes two main claims:
- Claim 1: Describes the container with an outer container, an inner bag, and a pressure equalization opening.
- Claim 2: Specifies the method of producing such a container, including the formation of the pressure equalization opening[4].
Claim Details
- Claim 1: Focuses on the structural aspects of the container, emphasizing the presence of an outer container, an inner bag, and the pressure equalization opening.
- Claim 2: Outlines the process of manufacturing the container, highlighting the steps involved in creating the pressure equalization opening[4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent is part of a family of related applications and patents, including:
- US09/828,109: Expired - Lifetime, related to the process for making a container with a pressure equalization opening.
- US10/215,610: Abandoned, also related to a container with a pressure equalization opening.
- US11/099,196: Expired - Lifetime, another continuation of the same invention[4].
Global Patent Family
The patent is linked to international applications, such as DE10017443A, which describes a similar process for producing a container with a pressure equalization opening. This indicates a global interest in this specific container design[4].
Search and Analysis Tools
For a comprehensive analysis of this patent and its landscape, several tools can be utilized:
- Patent Public Search: A web-based tool provided by the USPTO that offers enhanced access to prior art and patent documentation[1].
- Global Dossier: Allows users to view the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, which can be useful for understanding the global patent family[1].
- Common Citation Document (CCD): Consolidates citation data from multiple IP offices, helping to visualize the prior art cited by different offices for the same invention[1].
Economic and Legal Implications
Economic Impact
The invention could have significant economic implications by reducing the cost of container production and enhancing product safety. According to the USPTO's economic research, innovations in patent scope and claims can influence the overall economic value of a patent[3].
Legal Considerations
The legal status of the patent, currently expired due to fee-related issues, affects its enforceability. However, the study by ACUS on small claims patent courts highlights the ongoing discussions and considerations around patent litigation and enforcement, which could impact future similar inventions[5].
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts often emphasize the importance of detailed patent claims and the scope of the invention. For example, Andrei Iancu, former Undersecretary of Commerce for IP and Director of the USPTO, has highlighted the need for clear and robust patent claims to protect innovations effectively[5].
Statistics and Trends
- Patent Filings: The number of patent filings in the packaging industry has seen a steady increase, reflecting the ongoing innovation in container design and technology.
- Litigation: Patent litigation in the packaging sector is also on the rise, underscoring the importance of robust patent claims and a clear understanding of the patent landscape[3].
Key Takeaways
- Innovation in Container Design: The patent introduces a significant innovation in container design with the pressure equalization opening.
- Global Patent Family: The patent is part of a global family of related applications and patents.
- Economic and Legal Implications: The invention has economic and legal implications, including cost reduction and enhanced product safety.
- Search and Analysis Tools: Utilizing tools like Patent Public Search and Global Dossier is crucial for a comprehensive analysis.
FAQs
What is the main innovation described in US Patent 7,988,001?
The main innovation is the inclusion of a pressure equalization opening in a container, which helps maintain internal pressure balance.
How does the pressure equalization opening benefit the container?
It prevents deformation or bursting due to internal pressure changes, enhancing durability and safety.
What are the key components of the container described in the patent?
The key components include an outer container, an inner bag, and a pressure equalization opening.
Is the patent still enforceable?
No, the patent is currently expired due to fee-related issues.
What tools can be used to analyze the patent landscape for this invention?
Tools such as Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Common Citation Document (CCD) can be used for a comprehensive analysis.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- USA.gov - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): https://www.usa.gov/agencies/u-s-patent-and-trademark-office
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Google Patents - Container provided with a pressure equalization opening: https://patents.google.com/patent/US7988001B2/en
- ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court: https://www.acus.gov/research-projects/us-patent-small-claims-court
