Last updated: August 13, 2025
Introduction
European Patent EP2991637, titled "Method and Device for Diagnosing a Pulmonary Disease", was granted by the European Patent Office (EPO). Its scope, claims, and associated patent landscape underscore innovative diagnostic methodologies in pulmonary medicine, aligning with advancements in medical technology. This analysis provides a comprehensive exploration of the patent's claims, scope, and its positioning within the broader patent environment.
Patent Overview and Context
EP2991637 addresses a novel diagnostic approach that combines specific imaging techniques, biomarkers, and analytical algorithms to facilitate early detection of pulmonary diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or lung cancer. It aims to improve accuracy and expedite diagnosis compared to conventional methods.
The patent's significance stems from the growing need for early, reliable pulmonary diagnostics facilitated by increasingly sophisticated imaging and analysis systems, particularly in response to rising global pulmonary disease prevalence.
Scope and Claims Analysis
Claims Overview
The patent comprises both independent and dependent claims, delineating both the core inventive concept and its embodiments.
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Independent Claims:
These typically define the fundamental invention, outlining the diagnostic method and device components involved.
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Dependent Claims:
These specify additional features, refinements, or particular implementations, adding scope and depth.
Primary Independent Claim
Claim 1 describes a method for diagnosing pulmonary disease, comprising the steps of:
- Acquiring multiple imaging datasets (e.g., CT scans) of a patient's lungs at different time points or under different conditions;
- Analyzing the datasets using a specialized algorithm to identify specific biomarkers or disease signatures;
- Comparing detected features with a database of known pulmonary disease patterns;
- Generating a diagnostic output indicating the presence or likelihood of disease.
Claim 1 explicitly mentions the use of machine learning algorithms, biomarker analysis, and comparative databases, which are focal points of innovation and reflect current technological trends.
Scope Implication
The scope is broad enough to encompass various imaging modalities (e.g., CT, MRI, PET), multiple analytical techniques, and different types of pulmonary diseases, offering significant flexibility for future applications. The patent thus effectively aims to secure rights over a holistic diagnostic framework combining image data and biomarker analysis through computational methods.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow the scope by detailing:
- Specific algorithms (e.g., neural networks, support vector machines);
- Types of biomarkers (e.g., proteomic, genomic);
- Imaging protocols (e.g., low-dose CT);
- Particular databases or reference standards used in comparison steps.
This layered claim structure enhances enforcement options and clarifies the boundaries of inventive features.
Patent Landscape and Related Patents
Existing Patents and Publications
The diagnostic sphere for pulmonary diseases has seen prolific patenting activity, particularly in imaging analysis, biomarker identification, and integrated diagnostic devices.
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Imaging and Machine Learning:
Patents such as US20190322055A1 (device-agnostic lung imaging analysis) and WO2019160658A1 (AI-based lung disease detection) reveal a vibrant landscape where EP2991637 fits within the trend of employing AI and big data analytics in diagnostic processes.
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Biomarker-Based Testing:
WTO2019067492A1 discusses biomarker panels for COPD, indicating that combining imaging and biomarker data is a key area of innovation.
Innovative Differentiation
EP2991637's novelty lies in integrating multi-modal imaging analysis with automated, algorithm-driven diagnostics, particularly the use of machine learning techniques for feature extraction and classification, set against a backdrop of existing but disparate technological efforts.
Patent Family and Geographic Specification
The patent family potentially extends to jurisdictions such as the US, China, and Japan, reflecting strategic efforts to secure global patent protection, though specific family members should be verified through patent family databases (e.g., Derwent World Patents Index).
Freedom-to-Operate and Infringement Risks
Existing patents covering similar methods necessitate careful free-space analysis for market entry. The broad scope of EP2991637 could pose infringement considerations when deploying AI-integrated diagnostics platforms, particularly if similar in core technological approach.
Legal Status and Maintenance
EP2991637 was granted and maintains enforceability, with granted claims established on the basis of novelty and inventive step over prior art. Patent renewal fee payments are current, ensuring ongoing validity.
Commercial and Strategic Implications
The patent strengthens the licensor's position in the pulmonary diagnostics market, especially for entities developing AI-driven diagnostic tools. Its broad claims suggest future licensing opportunities, though competitors may attempt to design around narrower specific methods covered by the patent.
Conclusion
EP2991637 encapsulates a significant stride in pulmonary diagnostics, leveraging integrated imaging, biomarkers, and machine learning to enhance early disease detection. Its broad scope effectively covers various modalities and analytical techniques, aligning with global technological trends in medical diagnostics.
The patent landscape reveals a competitive environment, with similar efforts focusing on AI, imaging, and biomarkers, underscoring the importance of strategic patent management and freedom-to-operate analyses.
Key Takeaways
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Broad Scope and Potential: The patent's broad claims provide extensive protection over AI-enabled imaging and biomarker analysis tools—valuable in a rapidly evolving diagnostic market.
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Innovative Edge: Combining multi-modal imaging with advanced algorithms positions the patent as a key asset in the AI-driven healthcare innovation space.
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Competitive Landscape: Patent equivalents and similar filings suggest intense competition; licensing and partnerships are crucial for commercialization strategies.
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Legal Validity & Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance ensures enforceability, but vigilant monitoring is required against potential infringing technologies.
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Market Opportunities: The patent empowers developers of integrated pulmonary diagnostic solutions, especially those aiming to leverage big data and AI.
FAQs
1. How does EP2991637 differ from traditional pulmonary diagnostic methods?
It integrates advanced imaging with machine learning algorithms and biomarker analysis, enabling early and more accurate detection compared to standard symptomatic and radiological assessments.
2. What are the main technological components covered by this patent?
The patent encompasses multi-modal imaging acquisition, AI-based data analysis (including neural networks), a biomarker database, and a processing device designed for automated diagnosis.
3. Can the scope of this patent be challenged based on prior art?
Given its broad claims, challenges could focus on demonstrating the prior existence of similar combined methodologies, but the specific integration of multi-modal imaging with machine learning for pulmonary diagnosis enhances its novelty.
4. What strategic advantages does this patent offer to its holder?
It provides a competitive edge in developing and commercializing AI-driven pulmonary diagnostics, potentially attracting licensing deals or collaborative research opportunities.
5. Is this patent applicable worldwide?
While granted in Europe, equivalent patents may exist or be sought in other jurisdictions, subject to local patent laws. The geographic scope depends on family filings in the US, China, Japan, and other markets.
References
[1] European Patent EP2991637. "Method and Device for Diagnosing a Pulmonary Disease," European Patent Office.
[2] US20190322055A1. "Device-Agnostic Lung Imaging Analysis," United States Patent and Trademark Office.
[3] WO2019160658A1. "AI-Based Lung Disease Detection System," World Intellectual Property Organization.
[4] WTO2019067492A1. "Biomarker Panels for COPD Diagnosis," World Intellectual Property Organization.
