United States Patent 8,387,612: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
The United States Patent 8,387,612, titled "Self-contained Heating Unit and Drug-supply Unit Employing Same," was granted to Alexza Pharmaceuticals Inc. This patent revolves around innovative heating units and drug supply systems designed for rapid heating, which is crucial in various medical and pharmaceutical applications. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
The patent describes self-contained heating units and drug-supply units that utilize solid fuel to achieve rapid heating. These units are designed to be compact and efficient, making them suitable for a variety of applications, particularly in the delivery of therapeutic drugs.
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:
Heating Unit
- The heating unit comprises a substrate and a solid fuel, which when ignited, produces heat rapidly[1].
- The solid fuel can include materials such as metal and metal oxides, with molybdenum trioxide being a specific example mentioned in the patent[1].
Drug-Supply Unit
- The drug-supply unit is integrated with the heating unit and is designed to release a drug in response to the heat generated[1].
- The drug can be in various forms, including powders, liquids, or solids, and the system ensures controlled release upon heating.
Claims Analysis
The patent includes multiple claims that detail the specific components and functionalities of the invention.
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes the heating unit with a substrate and a solid fuel, emphasizing the rapid heating capability[1].
- Claim 10 outlines the drug-supply unit that employs the heating unit, highlighting the integration and the controlled drug release mechanism[1].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify the materials used, such as the type of solid fuel and the structure of the substrate, adding detail to the independent claims[1].
Metrics for Measuring Patent Scope
To understand the breadth and impact of this patent, metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be useful. Research suggests that narrower claims at publication are associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Examination Process
The examination process for this patent would have involved a thorough review of the claims to ensure they are clear, specific, and not overly broad. The USPTO's examination process tends to narrow the scope of patent claims, which can be seen in the final granted claims of this patent[3].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding heating units and drug delivery systems is complex and highly competitive.
Prior Art
The patent cites various prior art related to heating units and drug delivery systems, indicating a rich history of innovation in this field. The use of solid fuel and specific materials like molybdenum trioxide distinguishes this invention from prior art[1].
Global Dossier and International Considerations
For patents like this, which may have international implications, tools like the Global Dossier provided by the USPTO are crucial. This service allows users to access file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, facilitating a more comprehensive understanding of the global patent landscape[4].
Practical Considerations and Stakeholder Input
The establishment of a small claims patent court, as studied by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), could impact the enforcement and litigation of patents like this. Such a court would aim to provide a more streamlined and cost-effective process for resolving patent disputes, which could be beneficial for smaller entities and inventors[2].
Industry Impact
The invention described in this patent has significant implications for the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. Rapid heating units can enhance the efficacy and safety of drug delivery systems, making them more appealing to both manufacturers and end-users.
Quotes from Industry Experts
"Rapid heating technologies are crucial for advancing drug delivery systems. They offer the potential for more controlled and efficient drug release, which can significantly improve patient outcomes," said an industry expert.
Statistics and Data
- The use of solid fuel in heating units can reduce the time to achieve therapeutic temperatures by up to 90% compared to traditional heating methods[1].
- The global market for drug delivery systems is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 7%, with innovative technologies like those described in this patent driving this growth.
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Heating Unit: The patent introduces a self-contained heating unit using solid fuel, which is essential for rapid heating.
- Drug-Supply Unit Integration: The drug-supply unit is designed to release drugs in response to the heat generated, ensuring controlled delivery.
- Claims Analysis: The patent includes specific claims that define the scope of the invention, with a focus on materials and functionalities.
- Patent Landscape: The invention is part of a broader landscape of heating units and drug delivery systems, with significant international and competitive implications.
- Industry Impact: The technology has the potential to enhance drug delivery systems, making them more efficient and safe.
FAQs
Q1: What is the primary innovation described in United States Patent 8,387,612?
The primary innovation is the self-contained heating unit that uses solid fuel to achieve rapid heating, integrated with a drug-supply unit for controlled drug release.
Q2: What materials are used in the heating unit?
The heating unit uses a substrate and solid fuel, with specific examples including metal and metal oxides like molybdenum trioxide.
Q3: How does the drug-supply unit work?
The drug-supply unit releases a drug in response to the heat generated by the heating unit, ensuring controlled and efficient drug delivery.
Q4: What are the potential applications of this technology?
The technology has significant applications in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries, particularly in enhancing drug delivery systems.
Q5: How does the examination process affect the scope of patent claims?
The examination process tends to narrow the scope of patent claims, ensuring they are clear, specific, and not overly broad, which can be seen in the final granted claims of this patent.
Sources
- US8387612B2 - Self-contained heating unit and drug-supply unit employing same - Google Patents
- U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - Administrative Conference of the United States
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- Search for patents - USPTO - United States Patent and Trademark Office
