United States Patent 8,684,969: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
The United States Patent 8,684,969, titled "Injection Device with Torsion Spring and Rotatable Display," is a significant innovation in the field of medical devices, particularly in the realm of injection technology. This patent, assigned to Novo Nordisk A/S, introduces a novel design for an injection device that enhances accuracy and user convenience.
Background of the Invention
The patent addresses the need for improved accuracy and ease of use in automatic injection devices. Traditional devices often had limitations in dose setting and display, which could lead to errors in medication administration. The invention described in this patent aims to overcome these issues by integrating a torsion spring and a rotatable display mechanism[4].
Key Components of the Invention
Torsion Spring
The invention features a torsion spring operatively connected to a dose setting member. This spring is crucial for providing the mechanical force necessary to set and eject the dose from the injection device. The use of a torsion spring ensures consistent and reliable dose delivery[4].
Rotatable Display Member
A rotatable display member is another key component of this invention. This member is designed to display the dose to be ejected in accordance with the setting of the dose setting member. The display member can be implemented in two main forms:
- Dose Indicator Barrel: This is a barrel with numerals arranged along a helical path on its outer surface. The barrel can rotate over an angle corresponding to at least one revolution, enhancing the angular resolution and accuracy of dose setting[4].
- Counting Device: Alternatively, the display member can be a counting device with two or more display wheels, each having numerals arranged on their outer surfaces. This design also allows for precise dose indication over multiple revolutions[4].
Scope of the Patent
Claim Structure
The patent includes 26 claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims are structured to cover various aspects of the device, including the torsion spring, the dose setting member, and the rotatable display mechanism. The claims are designed to ensure that the invention is protected against any modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention[4].
Independent Claims
The independent claims are particularly important as they define the broadest scope of the invention. For example, Claim 1 describes the injection device comprising a torsion spring and a rotatable dose indicator mechanism capable of being rotated over an angle larger than 360 degrees. These claims set the foundation for the patent's scope and are critical in determining infringement[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the details of the invention, often narrowing down the scope to particular embodiments. These claims help in clarifying the specific features and functionalities of the device, such as the arrangement of numerals on the dose indicator barrel or the operation of the counting device[4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent landscape surrounding US 8,684,969 includes several related patents that cover various aspects of injection devices and their components. For instance, patents like US 9,616,180 and US 9,687,611, also assigned to Novo Nordisk, cover other innovations related to injection devices and their use, particularly in the context of specific medications like semaglutide (Ozempic®)[5].
Litigation and Enforcement
The patent has been involved in litigation, particularly in the context of generic drug manufacturers seeking to enter the market with similar products. For example, Sun Pharma has challenged the validity and enforceability of this and other related patents in their efforts to commercialize their own products[2].
Metrics for Measuring Patent Scope
Claim Length and Count
Research on patent scope suggests that metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be useful in measuring the breadth and complexity of a patent. For US 8,684,969, the 26 claims indicate a detailed and comprehensive coverage of the invention, suggesting a well-defined and potentially broad scope[3].
Impact on Innovation
Accuracy and User Convenience
The invention described in this patent significantly enhances the accuracy and user convenience of injection devices. By providing a clear and rotatable display of the dose, it reduces the risk of dosing errors, which is critical in medical treatment. This innovation can incentivize further development in the field of medical devices by setting a new standard for precision and usability[4].
Licensing and Litigation
The patent's scope and the related litigation can influence the licensing and litigation landscape. Companies seeking to develop similar devices must navigate these patents carefully to avoid infringement. This can lead to increased licensing costs and potential litigation, which may impact the incentives for innovation in this sector[3].
Key Takeaways
- Torsion Spring and Rotatable Display: The patent introduces a novel combination of a torsion spring and a rotatable display mechanism to enhance dose setting accuracy.
- Broad Scope: The 26 claims cover various aspects of the invention, ensuring comprehensive protection.
- Related Patents: The patent is part of a larger landscape of related patents covering injection devices and their use.
- Litigation: The patent has been involved in litigation related to generic drug manufacturers.
- Impact on Innovation: The invention sets a new standard for precision and usability in injection devices but may also increase licensing and litigation costs.
FAQs
What is the main innovation of US Patent 8,684,969?
The main innovation is the combination of a torsion spring and a rotatable display mechanism to enhance the accuracy of dose setting in injection devices.
Who is the assignee of this patent?
The assignee of this patent is Novo Nordisk A/S.
What are the key components of the invention?
The key components include a torsion spring, a dose setting member, and a rotatable display member.
How does the rotatable display member work?
The rotatable display member can be implemented as a dose indicator barrel or a counting device, both of which can rotate over an angle corresponding to at least one revolution to display the dose accurately.
What is the significance of the 26 claims in this patent?
The 26 claims define the scope of the invention, ensuring comprehensive protection against any modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.
How does this patent impact the broader patent landscape?
This patent is part of a larger landscape of related patents covering injection devices and their use, and its scope and related litigation can influence licensing and litigation costs in the sector.
Sources
- US8684969B2 - Injection device with torsion spring and rotatable display - Google Patents
- in the united states district court - RPX Insight
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - Hoover Institution
- United States Patent - googleapis.com
- OZEMPIC (SEMAGLUTIDE) ) MDL No. 22-MD-3038 (CFC) - RPX Insight
