Last updated: August 10, 2025
Introduction
Australian patent AU2006249323, entitled "Method and apparatus for stimulating nerve fibers," was filed by Pulse Therapeutics Limited. This patent pertains to a novel method of neural stimulation designed to enhance therapeutic outcomes, particularly in pain management and neurological therapies. As an important element in the broader patent landscape for neural stimulation devices and methods, AU2006249323 influences the competitive IP environment and commercial development strategies within this domain.
This analysis explores the patent's scope, claims, and its positioning within the existing landscape, offering insights valuable for pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, and academic research institutions.
Patent Overview and Technical Field
AU2006249323 broadly falls within the domain of neuromodulation, specifically targeting nerve fiber stimulation via an innovative apparatus and method. The patent aims to improve upon existing electrical stimulation techniques by refining stimulation parameters, electrode configuration, and waveform delivery to achieve greater efficacy and specificity.
The patent's technical field includes:
- Neural stimulation methods
- Implantable and non-implantable neuromodulation devices
- Therapeutic applications for pain, neurological disorders, and possibly psychiatric conditions
The patent’s priority date dates back to 2006, with both provisional and complete applications, positioning it within a dynamic innovation landscape where numerous patents refine electrical stimulation paradigms.
Scope and Claims Analysis
Claim Structure Overview
The core claims of AU2006249323 focus on both the apparatus and the methods employed for stimulating nerve fibers. The claims encompass:
- Specific electrode configurations designed to target nerve fibers selectively.
- Waveform parameters (e.g., pulse duration, frequency, amplitude) optimized for efficacy.
- Delivery systems that control stimulation sequences and intensity.
- Apparatus features that enhance electrode contact and signal delivery efficiency.
The claims are method-focused, emphasizing on parameters such as the temporal pattern of pulses and spatial arrangement, indicating a targeted approach to neuromodulation.
Key Claims Breakdown
- Claim 1: Describes a method for stimulating nerve fibers using a defined waveform with specific pulse characteristics to activate targeted nerve fibers selectively.
- Claim 2-5: Highlight device features including electrode design, placement, and contact surfaces that optimize nerve engagement.
- Claim 6-10: Detail parameters such as stimulation frequency (e.g., in the range of 1 to 500 Hz), pulse width (e.g., 30–300 microseconds), and amplitude thresholds.
- Claims 11-15: Cover the method of delivering stimulation in cycles or patterns to modulate nerve response over time.
- Dependent Claims: These expand on variations, including electrode material (e.g., biocompatible conductive materials), placement (e.g., epidural, peripheral nerve), and feedback mechanisms to adjust stimulation parameters dynamically.
Scope Implications
The patent claims are comprehensive, covering both hardware and operational methodologies, but remain focused on precise electrical parameters and physical configurations intended to improve neuromodulation specificity and safety. The scope does not broadly claim all nerve stimulation techniques, rather it structures around a particular set of waveform parameters and electrode designs, aligning with targeted therapeutic aims.
Patent Landscape Context
Prior Art and Related Patents
The patent’s filing in 2006 places it in the context of evolving neuromodulation technologies, where notable developments include:
- Selective nerve stimulation: Efforts to enhance targeting specificity have driven patents focusing on electrode design such as multicontact arrays ([2], [3]).
- Waveform innovations: Patent applications like US20090185263A1 (from Nevro Corp.) describe high-frequency waveforms for pain relief, emphasizing frequency and pulse shape modulation—concepts partially overlapping with AU2006249323 claims ([4]).
- Implantable pulse generators: Existing patents such as US7438837B2 by Medtronic cover device architectures similar to those claimed in AU2006249323 ([5]).
AU2006249323 complements these advancements by emphasizing specific waveform parameters, electrode configuration, and stimulation sequencing, positioning it as a potentially foundational patent within this niche.
Impact on Competitors and Licensees
Its detailed claims allow the patent holder to establish a strong IP position for devices employing specific waveform strategies in nerve fibers, especially in Europe and Australia, where national validations are critical for product commercialization.
The patent could serve as a blocking patent for competitive devices that use similar waveform profiles or electrode configurations, impacting licensing strategies and product development pipelines.
Legal Status and Market Position
As of the latest updates, AU2006249323 remains active, with the patent granted in 2008 and life extending through 2024, barring any legal challenges. Its validity has not been significantly challenged, and it enjoys enforceability within Australia.
The patent aligns with the IP portfolios of companies engaged in targeted neuromodulation, including Pulse Therapeutics and possibly related entities exploring waveform customization and electrode innovations. Its scope supports patent enforcement and licensing efforts, potentially influencing product design around neural stimulation devices.
Conclusion
AU2006249323 encapsulates a nuanced technological approach to nerve stimulation, emphasizing specific electrical parameters, electrode design, and methodical stimulation sequences. Its claims are well-structured to cover a valuable segment of the neuromodulation market, especially for pain management and neurological therapy devices.
Given the established patent landscape—populated with similar device and waveform innovations—it is a strategic patent that offers both offensive and defensive IP leverage. Firms seeking to develop or improve neurostimulation systems should consider its scope when designing new therapies, as infringement risks are significant without careful design-around strategies.
Key Takeaways
- AU2006249323 provides a robust legal framework covering specific stimulation waveforms, electrode configurations, and delivery methods, making it integral to the Australian neuromodulation patent landscape.
- The patent’s claims are precise, targeting particular electrical parameters that can influence device development and competitive differentiation.
- It complements existing patents on electrode design and stimulation frequency, forming part of a comprehensive IP portfolio for neural stimulation technologies.
- Commercial licensing opportunities are viable given its enforceability, but product developers must design around the claims to avoid infringement.
- Ongoing patent expiration around 2024 could open opportunities for newcomers or patent challenges, especially if pose broader claims elsewhere.
FAQs
Q1: How does AU2006249323 differ from other neuromodulation patents?
A1: The patent uniquely emphasizes specific waveform parameters and electrode configurations designed for selective nerve fiber activation, differentiating it through its detailed method claims and tailored stimulation sequences.
Q2: Can this patent be licensed for use in new neurostimulator devices?
A2: Yes, licensees can negotiate licensing agreements, provided they do not infringe on the specific claims. Alternatively, designing around the patent's scope is advisable for non-infringing innovations.
Q3: What is the potential impact of patent expiration in 2024?
A3: Post-expiration, the claims enter the public domain, enabling unrestricted use, which may facilitate innovation and reduce licensing costs for neuromodulation device manufacturers.
Q4: Are there ongoing legal challenges against this patent?
A4: As of current records, there are no publicly known legal challenges to AU2006249323’s validity or enforceability.
Q5: How does this patent influence future research and development in nerve stimulation?
A5: It sets a technical benchmark for waveform design and electrode configuration, encouraging further refinement of parameters to improve specificity and safety in neuromodulation therapies.
References
[1] Pulse Therapeutics Limited, "Method and apparatus for stimulating nerve fibers," AU2006249323A1.
[2] U.S. Patent No. 7,438,837, Medtronic, "Multi-contact nerve cuff electrodes," 2008.
[3] US20090185263A1, Nevro Corp., "High-frequency spinal cord stimulation," 2009.
[4] U.S. Patent Application No. US20090185263A1.
[5] US20060113999A1, "Implantable neurostimulation device," 2006.
