United States Patent 9,676,525: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 9,676,525, titled "Protective cap for a dispenser, and discharge device for discharging pharmaceutical and/or cosmetical liquids," is an invention that addresses the need for a secure and hygienic method of dispensing liquids, particularly in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. This article will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Scope of the Invention
The patent describes a protective cap for a dispenser designed to discharge pharmaceutical or cosmetic liquids. The dispenser includes a liquid reservoir and an outlet opening through which the liquid is discharged into the surrounding atmosphere. The liquid can be conveyed for discharge using various mechanisms, such as a squeeze bottle or a separate pump device[1].
Key Components
- Liquid Reservoir: This is the container that holds the liquid to be dispensed. It can be designed as a squeeze bottle, where the content is placed under pressure by deforming the walls.
- Outlet Opening: This is the point through which the liquid is discharged.
- Protective Cap: The cap is designed to ensure the dispenser remains airtight and germproof when not in use.
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- The protective cap comprises an inner cap and an outer cap. The outer cap is mounted on the inner cap in a first position where the inner cap and the outer cap are sealingly in contact, separating at least one ventilation opening from the environment[1].
Dependent Claims
- The outer cap is movable relative to the inner cap from the first position to at least a second position, where the inner cap and the outer cap are not sealingly in contact, allowing the ventilation opening to communicate with the environment.
- The dispenser can include a squeeze bottle or a separate pump device to convey the liquid for discharge[1].
Detailed Description of the Invention
Dispenser Mechanism
The dispenser mechanism is crucial for the effective discharge of the liquid. The liquid reservoir can be designed to be deformable, allowing users to squeeze it to dispense the liquid. Alternatively, a separate pump device can be used to achieve the same result[1].
Protective Cap Functionality
The protective cap ensures that the dispenser remains sealed when not in use, preventing contamination and maintaining the hygiene of the liquid. The cap's design allows for easy transition between sealed and open states, facilitating user convenience[1].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The invention builds upon existing dispensers known from prior art, such as those described in DE 10 2011 086 755 A1. However, the unique design of the protective cap and its functionality differentiate this invention from previous ones[1].
International Patent Landscape
The global patent landscape for dispensers and protective caps is extensive. Databases such as the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) provide access to a wide range of patents related to dispensing devices. This indicates a highly competitive and innovative field where continuous improvements are being made[4].
Economic and Legal Implications
Patent Scope Measurements
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides insights into patent scope measurements, which can help in understanding the breadth and depth of patent claims. This dataset can be useful in analyzing the economic implications of patents like US 9,676,525[3].
Settlements and Litigations
Patent settlements, such as those involving Orange Book patents, highlight the legal complexities surrounding intellectual property in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for navigating the patent landscape effectively[2].
Industry Impact
Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Industries
The invention has significant implications for the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, where hygiene and safety are paramount. The protective cap ensures that products remain uncontaminated, which is critical for consumer safety and regulatory compliance.
Market Competition
In a highly competitive market, innovations like the protective cap can provide a competitive edge. Companies that adopt such technologies can enhance their product offerings, improve user satisfaction, and comply with stringent regulatory standards.
User Benefits
Convenience and Hygiene
The design of the protective cap offers users convenience and ensures the hygiene of the dispensed liquid. This is particularly important in healthcare settings where contamination can have serious consequences.
Ease of Use
The mechanism of the cap, allowing it to move between sealed and open states, makes it user-friendly. This ease of use is a significant advantage, especially in environments where speed and efficiency are crucial.
Future Developments
Technological Advancements
The field of dispensing devices is continuously evolving. Future developments may include more sophisticated mechanisms for dispensing liquids, enhanced materials for the protective cap, and integration with other technologies such as smart dispensers.
Regulatory Compliance
As regulatory standards evolve, innovations in dispensing devices will need to adapt. Ensuring compliance with new regulations while maintaining or improving the functionality of the protective cap will be essential.
Key Takeaways
- Protective Cap Design: The patent introduces a unique protective cap design that ensures the dispenser remains airtight and germproof.
- Dispenser Mechanism: The invention can use various mechanisms such as squeeze bottles or pump devices to dispense liquids.
- Industry Impact: The invention has significant implications for the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, enhancing product safety and user convenience.
- Patent Landscape: The global patent landscape for dispensers is extensive, with continuous innovations and legal complexities.
FAQs
What is the primary purpose of the protective cap in US Patent 9,676,525?
The primary purpose of the protective cap is to ensure that the dispenser remains airtight and germproof when not in use, preventing contamination of the liquid.
How does the dispenser mechanism work in this patent?
The dispenser mechanism can work through a squeeze bottle or a separate pump device, which conveys the liquid for discharge through the outlet opening.
What are the key components of the protective cap described in the patent?
The protective cap comprises an inner cap and an outer cap. The outer cap is movable relative to the inner cap, allowing for sealed and open states.
How does this invention impact the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries?
The invention enhances product safety and user convenience, ensuring that the dispensed liquids remain uncontaminated, which is critical for consumer safety and regulatory compliance.
What resources can be used to search for similar patents internationally?
Resources such as the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) provide access to international patent databases[4].
Sources
- US9676525B2 - Protective cap for a dispenser, and discharge device for discharging pharmaceutical and/or cosmetical liquids - Google Patents
- Hovenkamp, Erik and Lemus, Jorge - Online Appendix for 'Delayed Entry Settlements at the Patent Office' - SSRN
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- USPTO - Search for patents - USPTO
- PubChem - Protective cap for a dispenser, and discharge device for discharging pharmaceutical and/or cosmetical liquids - PubChem
