United States Patent 8,802,637: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 8,802,637, titled "Benzylbenzene derivatives and methods of use," is a patent that covers a range of chemical compounds and their applications, particularly in the pharmaceutical field. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Patent
The patent, issued to its inventors, describes benzylbenzene derivatives, which are a class of organic compounds with potential therapeutic uses. These compounds are detailed in the patent along with methods for their preparation, synthetic intermediates, and their pharmaceutical applications[4].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by the claims, which outline the specific inventions and innovations covered by the patent. Here are some key aspects of the scope:
Chemical Compounds
The patent focuses on benzylbenzene derivatives, which are synthesized through specific chemical reactions. These compounds are described in detail, including their structural formulas and the methods used to prepare them[4].
Pharmaceutical Applications
The patent claims cover the use of these benzylbenzene derivatives in pharmaceutical compositions. This includes their application in treating various diseases, although the specific therapeutic uses are not detailed in the patent abstract[4].
Methods of Preparation
The patent also covers the methods of preparing these compounds, including the synthesis of intermediate compounds necessary for the final product. This is crucial as it ensures that the patent holder has a monopoly on the specific methods described[4].
Claims of the Patent
The claims section of the patent is where the inventors specify exactly what they are seeking to protect. Here are some key points about the claims:
Independent Claims
The patent includes independent claims that define the broadest scope of the invention. These claims typically describe the core aspects of the benzylbenzene derivatives and their pharmaceutical uses[5].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims and provide more specific details about the invention. These claims may include variations of the compounds, specific methods of synthesis, or particular applications[5].
Claim Structure
The claims are structured to ensure that they are clear, concise, and definite. This is important for patent enforcement and to avoid ambiguity in what is being protected[3].
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape is crucial for assessing the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention, as well as identifying potential competitors and collaborators.
Prior Art
The patent landscape includes prior art, which are existing patents and publications that relate to the same field of invention. The USPTO and other international patent offices provide tools to search prior art, such as the Patent Public Search tool and the Common Citation Document (CCD) application[1].
International Patent Offices
The patent landscape extends beyond the United States. Searching international patent databases, such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), can reveal similar patents or applications filed in other countries[1].
Related Patents and Applications
The Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO allows users to view the patent family for a specific application, including related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in understanding the broader patent family and any ongoing patent proceedings[1].
Economic and Research Implications
The Patent Claims Research Dataset provided by the USPTO can offer insights into the economic and research implications of patents like US 8,802,637. This dataset includes detailed information on claims from US patents and applications, which can be used to analyze patent scope and trends[3].
Legal Status and Enforcement
The legal status of the patent is crucial for understanding its current enforceability. As of the last update, the patent was listed as active, but it is important to verify this status through official channels, as legal statuses can change over time[4].
Practical Applications and Impact
The practical applications of the benzylbenzene derivatives covered by this patent can be significant in the pharmaceutical industry. These compounds could lead to new treatments for various diseases, contributing to advancements in healthcare.
Challenges and Opportunities
While the patent provides a monopoly on the specific compounds and methods described, it also presents challenges and opportunities:
Competition
Other companies may be working on similar compounds or methods, which could lead to competition in the market. Understanding the patent landscape helps in navigating these competitive waters.
Collaboration
The patent could also serve as a basis for collaboration with other researchers or companies, leading to further innovation and development in the field.
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent covers benzylbenzene derivatives, their synthesis, and pharmaceutical applications.
- Patent Landscape: Understanding prior art, international patents, and related applications is crucial for assessing the patent's novelty and non-obviousness.
- Economic and Research Implications: The Patent Claims Research Dataset can provide insights into patent scope and trends.
- Legal Status: Verifying the patent's legal status is essential for enforcement.
- Practical Applications: The compounds could lead to new treatments in the pharmaceutical industry.
FAQs
Q: What are the main compounds covered by US Patent 8,802,637?
A: The patent covers benzylbenzene derivatives, which are a class of organic compounds with potential therapeutic uses.
Q: How can I search for related patents internationally?
A: You can use databases provided by international patent offices such as the EPO, JPO, and WIPO to search for related patents[1].
Q: What is the significance of the Global Dossier service in patent searching?
A: The Global Dossier service allows users to view the patent family for a specific application, including related applications filed at participating IP Offices[1].
Q: How can I verify the legal status of a patent?
A: You can verify the legal status of a patent through official channels such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool or by contacting the patent office directly[1].
Q: What is the purpose of the Patent Claims Research Dataset?
A: The dataset provides detailed information on claims from US patents and applications, helping to analyze patent scope and trends[3].
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Regulations.gov - Patent: https://downloads.regulations.gov/FDA-2023-E-3190-0002/attachment_1.pdf
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Google Patents - US8802637B2: https://patents.google.com/patent/US8802637B2/en
- Patent Images - US 8,802,637 B2: http://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/pdfs/US8802637.pdf
