United States Patent 9,408,993: A Comprehensive Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 9,408,993, titled "Nitric Oxide Delivery Device," is a significant innovation in the field of medical technology, particularly in the delivery of therapeutic gases. This patent, assigned to various inventors and assignees, outlines a sophisticated system for the controlled delivery of nitric oxide, a gas with critical therapeutic applications.
Overview of the Patent
Invention Description
The patent describes a nitric oxide delivery device that includes a valve assembly, a control module, and a gas delivery mechanism. This device is designed to deliver nitric oxide in a controlled and precise manner, which is crucial for therapeutic applications such as treating respiratory conditions like hypoxia and respiratory insufficiency[1].
Key Components
- Valve Assembly: This component is responsible for regulating the flow of gases, ensuring that the correct concentration of nitric oxide is delivered.
- Control Module: This module oversees the entire operation, including communication with other devices, memory storage for settings and data, and the execution of therapeutic protocols.
- Gas Delivery Mechanism: This mechanism is responsible for the actual delivery of the gas to the patient, ensuring that it is done safely and efficiently[1].
Scope of the Patent
Therapeutic Applications
The patent highlights the device's use in various therapeutic procedures, particularly in treating conditions such as hypoxia, respiratory insufficiency, and respiratory failure. The controlled delivery of nitric oxide is essential in these treatments due to its vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties[1].
Technical Scope
The device incorporates advanced technologies such as gas flow measurement, optical effects for monitoring, and a system for scrubbing exhaust gases to ensure safety and efficiency. The patent also mentions the use of a transceiver for communication, indicating the device's capability for remote monitoring and control[1].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the core aspects of the invention. These claims cover the overall structure of the device, including the valve assembly, control module, and gas delivery mechanism. They also specify the functional aspects, such as the control module's ability to communicate and store data, and the gas delivery mechanism's precision in delivering nitric oxide[1].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further elaborate on the details of the independent claims, providing additional specifications on how the components interact and function. For example, they may detail the specific algorithms used by the control module or the materials used in the valve assembly[1].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and References
The patent references several prior art documents, indicating the evolution of nitric oxide delivery systems. These references include earlier patents and publications related to gas delivery mechanisms, therapeutic protocols, and safety features[1][4].
Competitive Landscape
The patent landscape in the field of nitric oxide delivery devices is complex, with multiple patents and claims covering various aspects of gas delivery systems. Companies like Third Pole, Inc., have also developed similar systems, as seen in patents like US 10,695,523 B2, which describes systems and methods for generating nitric oxide[4].
Intellectual Property Strategy
To navigate this landscape effectively, companies must employ robust patent analytics. This involves creating a Claim Coverage Matrix to identify which patents and claims are actively protecting their intellectual property and where gaps or opportunities exist. Tools like ClaimScape® software can help in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, making it easier to analyze large numbers of patent claims[3].
Regulatory and Safety Aspects
Regulatory Compliance
The device must comply with various regulatory requirements, including those related to medical devices and therapeutic gases. The patent mentions the need for precise control and safety features to ensure regulatory compliance[1].
Safety Features
The device includes several safety features, such as exhaust gas scrubbing and precise gas flow measurement, to prevent adverse effects and ensure patient safety. These features are critical in therapeutic settings where the accurate delivery of nitric oxide is paramount[1].
Market Impact and Future Directions
Market Demand
The demand for precise nitric oxide delivery devices is increasing due to their therapeutic efficacy in treating respiratory conditions. This patent positions the inventors and assignees to capitalize on this market demand by offering a highly controlled and safe delivery system[1].
Future Innovations
Future innovations in this field may include advancements in control algorithms, integration with other medical devices, and improvements in the materials used for the valve assembly and gas delivery mechanism. The patent's emphasis on communication and data storage suggests potential for remote monitoring and personalized therapeutic protocols[1].
Key Takeaways
- The United States Patent 9,408,993 describes a sophisticated nitric oxide delivery device with a valve assembly, control module, and gas delivery mechanism.
- The device has significant therapeutic applications, particularly in treating respiratory conditions.
- The patent includes detailed claims that cover the structure and function of the device.
- The patent landscape is complex, requiring robust patent analytics to navigate effectively.
- Regulatory compliance and safety features are critical aspects of the device.
FAQs
What is the primary therapeutic application of the nitric oxide delivery device described in US Patent 9,408,993?
The primary therapeutic application is in treating respiratory conditions such as hypoxia, respiratory insufficiency, and respiratory failure.
What are the key components of the nitric oxide delivery device?
The key components include a valve assembly, a control module, and a gas delivery mechanism.
How does the control module function in the nitric oxide delivery device?
The control module oversees the operation, including communication with other devices, memory storage for settings and data, and the execution of therapeutic protocols.
What safety features are included in the nitric oxide delivery device?
The device includes safety features such as exhaust gas scrubbing and precise gas flow measurement to ensure patient safety.
How does the patent landscape impact the development and commercialization of nitric oxide delivery devices?
The complex patent landscape requires companies to use robust patent analytics to identify gaps and opportunities in their intellectual property coverage, ensuring they do not infringe on existing patents and can protect their own innovations.
Sources
- US9408993B2 - Nitric oxide delivery device - Google Patents
- Gas delivery device and system - Patent AU-2011328891-A1
- Patent Analytics | Intellectual Property Law
- United States Patent - googleapis.com
