United States Patent 8,291,904: A Comprehensive Analysis
Overview of the Patent
The United States Patent 8,291,904, titled "Gas delivery device and system," was granted to address the needs of precise gas delivery, particularly in medical contexts. This patent is part of a broader portfolio related to gas delivery systems, especially relevant in the field of respiratory therapy and critical care.
Background and Context
The patent is associated with the development of advanced gas delivery systems, which are crucial in medical treatments involving gases such as nitric oxide. Companies like Mallinckrodt Hospital Products IP Ltd., INO Therapeutics LLC, and Ikaria, Inc. have been involved in the development and litigation surrounding these patents, highlighting their significance in the medical industry[2].
Scope of the Patent
The patent describes a gas delivery system that includes a gas delivery device, a control module, and a gas delivery mechanism. Here are the key components:
Gas Delivery Device
- This device is designed to deliver gases precisely and safely. It includes features such as valves, sensors, and communication modules to ensure accurate and controlled gas flow[1].
Control Module
- The control module is the brain of the system, responsible for regulating the gas flow based on predefined parameters. It can include a CPU, memory, and a transceiver for communication with other devices[1].
Gas Delivery Mechanism
- This mechanism involves the actual delivery of the gas to the patient. It can include components like bellows, connecting tubes, and patient circuits to ensure efficient and safe gas delivery[1].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- These claims outline the core components of the gas delivery system, including the gas delivery device, control module, and gas delivery mechanism.
- For example, Claim 1 describes a gas delivery system comprising a gas delivery device with a valve and a sensor, a control module with a CPU and memory, and a gas delivery mechanism[1].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify the details of the independent claims, such as the types of gases that can be delivered (e.g., nitric oxide), the communication protocols used, and the safety features integrated into the system[1].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US 8,291,904 is complex and involves multiple stakeholders:
Related Patents
- This patent is part of a family of patents related to gas delivery systems. Other patents, such as U.S. Patent Nos. 8,282,966, 8,293,284, and 8,431,163, also cover various aspects of gas delivery and treatment[2].
Litigation and Disputes
- The patent has been involved in litigation, with companies like Mallinckrodt and INO Therapeutics asserting infringement claims against other entities. This highlights the commercial significance and the competitive nature of the gas delivery market[2].
Regulatory Environment
- The FDA plays a crucial role in regulating gas delivery systems, especially those involving inhaled nitric oxide. Future products and systems must comply with FDA regulations, which can impact the patent's application and enforcement[5].
Technological Impact
The technological impact of this patent is significant:
Precision and Safety
- The system ensures precise and safe delivery of gases, which is critical in medical treatments. The integration of sensors and control modules helps in maintaining the desired gas flow and concentration[1].
Communication and Integration
- The patent includes features for communication between the gas delivery device and other medical equipment, enhancing the overall efficiency and safety of the treatment process[1].
Economic and Market Impact
The economic and market impact of this patent is substantial:
Market Competition
- The patent is part of a competitive landscape where companies are continually innovating and litigating to protect their intellectual property. This competition drives innovation and improves the quality of gas delivery systems[2].
Cost and Accessibility
- The precise and safe delivery of gases can reduce healthcare costs by minimizing the risk of complications and improving patient outcomes. This can make such treatments more accessible and affordable[1].
Future Developments and Trends
The future of gas delivery systems is likely to involve further advancements in technology and regulatory compliance:
Advanced Materials and Designs
- Future developments may include the use of advanced materials and designs that enhance the efficiency and safety of gas delivery systems[1].
Regulatory Harmonization
- There is a trend towards regulatory harmonization, with initiatives like the Common Citation Document (CCD) and the Global Dossier aiming to streamline the patent process across different jurisdictions[4].
Key Takeaways
- Precise Gas Delivery: The patent ensures precise and safe delivery of gases, critical in medical treatments.
- Technological Integration: The system integrates sensors, control modules, and communication protocols to enhance efficiency and safety.
- Regulatory Compliance: The patent is subject to FDA regulations, and future developments must comply with these standards.
- Market Impact: The patent is part of a competitive landscape that drives innovation and improves the quality of gas delivery systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of the gas delivery system described in US 8,291,904?
The primary purpose is to deliver gases precisely and safely, particularly in medical treatments involving gases like nitric oxide.
Which companies are associated with the development and litigation of this patent?
Companies like Mallinckrodt Hospital Products IP Ltd., INO Therapeutics LLC, and Ikaria, Inc. are associated with the development and litigation of this patent.
How does the control module in the gas delivery system function?
The control module regulates the gas flow based on predefined parameters using a CPU, memory, and a transceiver for communication.
What is the significance of the FDA in the context of this patent?
The FDA plays a crucial role in regulating gas delivery systems, and future products must comply with FDA regulations to ensure safety and efficacy.
How does this patent impact the market for gas delivery systems?
The patent is part of a competitive landscape that drives innovation and improves the quality of gas delivery systems, enhancing market competition and patient care.
Cited Sources
- US8291904B2 - Gas delivery device and system - Google Patents
- 15-170.pdf - District of Delaware
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO
- Requests that the FDA require that all future inhaled nitric oxide drug products and nitric oxide delivery systems be reviewed by the Center - Regulations.gov