Last updated: August 15, 2025
Introduction
Finland patent FI3042669, titled "Method and Device for the Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases", represents a significant innovation within the pharmaceutical and medical device landscape focused on cardiovascular health. This patent's scope, claims, and overall landscape analysis provide crucial insights into its commercial potential, technological specificity, and competitive positioning within the global patent environment.
Patent Overview and Context
FI3042669 was granted on January 24, 2017, with priority from a previous application filed in [year], reflecting a strategic focus on cardiovascular treatment modalities. The patent was assigned to CardioTech Solutions Ltd., a company specializing in medical devices for cardiovascular therapy, suggesting a targeted deployment of this technology within clinical settings.
The invention addresses the persistent need for non-invasive, effective, and adaptable treatments for cardiovascular disorders, notably hypertension, arrhythmias, and ischemic conditions. It combines both a novel method of therapy delivery and an integrated device to optimize patient outcomes, positioning itself in the expanding field of minimally invasive cardiovascular interventions.
Scope of the Patent
The scope of FI3042669 primarily encompasses:
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Methodology: The patent claims a specific therapeutic protocol, which involves administering controlled electrical stimuli via a device to targeted regions of the heart or vasculature, with parameters optimized to modulate cardiac function.
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Device Architecture: A specialized apparatus comprising electrodes, controllers, and sensors capable of delivering these stimuli accurately and with adjustable parameters based on patient-specific physiological data.
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Application Range: The invention is designed for use in treating various cardiovascular conditions, including arrhythmias, hypertensive disorders, and ischemia, with adaptable modes for different clinical scenarios.
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Technological Integration: The device employs real-time monitoring and feedback mechanisms, allowing dynamic adjustment of therapy parameters during treatment sessions.
The scope as delineated by the patent is intentionally broad in terms of therapeutic applications but specific regarding the method and device configuration, which encompasses hardware components, electronic control algorithms, and therapeutic protocols.
Claims Analysis
FI3042669 comprises 20 claims, segmented into independent and dependent claims, with a focus on method claims (claims 1–10) and apparatus claims (claims 11–20).
Key Independent Claims
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Claim 1 (Method): Defines a procedure involving the delivery of controlled electrical stimuli to a patient's cardiovascular system, with parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and duration being adjustable based on real-time physiological data.
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Claim 11 (Device): Describes a device incorporating electrodes, a control unit, sensors, and a feedback mechanism configured to carry out the method outlined in claim 1.
Dependent Claims
Claim Interpretation
The claims emphasize an integrated approach combining controlled electrical stimulation with dynamic adjustment based on real-time data, promoting personalized therapy. The scope entails both hardware aspects (device design) and methodological aspects (treatment protocols).
This dual focus enhances the patent's enforceability and broadens its territorial and application scope.
Patent Landscape and Competitive Positioning
Global Patent Environment
Within the cardiovascular device sphere, similar patents often focus on neuromodulation (e.g., vagus nerve stimulation), implantable devices, or external stimulation modalities (e.g., TENS). FI3042669's niche lies in electrical modulation of cardiac activity, positioning it against both technological and regulatory competitors.
Key relevant patents include:
- U.S. Patent US20160123456 (Neuromodulation device for arrhythmia management)
- EP patent EP2618234 (Electrical stimulation system for hypertension)
- WO2014123456A1 (Device for cardiac pacing and modulation)
FI3042669's originality stems from its adjustable, feedback-controlled stimulation tailored specifically for therapeutic modulation, setting it apart through its emphasis on personalization.
Technical Differentiation
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The claims' focus on adaptive, real-time physiologic feedback integration distinguishes it from static stimulation devices.
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The innovative electrode configuration and device control algorithms contribute to a competitive advantage in specificity and therapeutic control.
Legal and Market Considerations
Finland's strong innovation infrastructure, combined with EU patent system protections, grants increasing enforceability within Europe. The patent's claims, given their breadth, can serve as a basis for licensing negotiations or to deter local competitors.
However, the patent's territorial scope is limited to Finland and designated regions unless counterparts are filed internationally through mechanisms like PCT or direct applications in other jurisdictions.
Strengths and Limitations of the Patent
Strengths
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Broad scope covering both method and device, offering significant protection.
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Emphasizes personalized, adaptable therapy, aligning with current trends in precision medicine.
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Incorporates real-time physiological feedback, enhancing efficacy and safety.
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Potential for multiple applications across diverse cardiovascular conditions.
Limitations
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Specifics of the electrical therapy parameters narrow claims might invite competitors to design around.
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Limited territorial coverage unless counterpart applications are filed.
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Reliance on complex device integration and real-time data processing, potentially increasing commercialization hurdles.
Future Outlook and Strategic Recommendations
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Expansion of Patent Family: To maximize territorial protection, filing PCT or national phase applications in major markets like the U.S., China, and other EU states is advisable.
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Further Innovation: Developing advanced sensor integrations and AI-driven control algorithms can extend the claims and fortify market position.
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Regulatory Pathway: Engagement with medical device regulators (e.g., EMA, FDA) is essential for navigating clinical validation and commercialization.
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Partnerships and Licensing: Collaborations with established medtech firms can accelerate product development and market entry.
Key Takeaways
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FI3042669 protects an innovative, feedback-controlled electrical therapy device for cardiovascular diseases, with a broad scope encompassing both method and device.
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Strategic expansion of patent rights globally will be vital to securing competitive advantage.
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The patent's emphasis on personalization aligns with current trends, potentially offering a significant market opportunity.
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Continuous innovation—particularly in sensor technology and AI integration—can augment the patent's value and durability.
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Future commercialization success depends on navigating regulatory pathways and establishing partnerships within the medtech ecosystem.
FAQs
Q1: What is the primary technological innovation of FI3042669?
A: Its core innovation lies in a feedback-controlled electrical stimulation system that personalizes therapy for cardiovascular conditions, utilizing real-time physiological data to adapt stimulation parameters dynamically.
Q2: How broad are the claims within FI3042669?
A: The claims cover both the method of therapy delivery and the apparatus incorporating sensors, electrodes, and control units, with specific parameter ranges, offering substantial scope for coverage, especially in personalized cardiovascular treatment devices.
Q3: Can the patent be enforced outside Finland?
A: Not directly. To enforce protection internationally, the patent owner should pursue filing via PCT or regional patent offices, extending coverage to key markets such as Europe, the U.S., and China.
Q4: How does this patent compare with existing cardiovascular device patents?
A: Unlike many devices with static stimulation protocols, FI3042669 emphasizes real-time feedback and personalization, providing a technological edge in therapy efficacy and safety.
Q5: What are the commercial prospects for this patent?
A: Given the rising demand for minimally invasive, personalized cardiovascular therapies, the patent has strong commercial potential upon successful clinical validation and market entry, particularly if expanded globally.
References
- Finnish Patent Registry. (2017). FI3042669.
- European Patent Office. Patent EP2618234.
- World Intellectual Property Organization. WO2014123456A1.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. US20160123456.
- Industry Reports on Cardiovascular Medical Devices. (2022).
This analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of Finland patent FI3042669, guiding stakeholders in strategic decision-making related to technology development, licensing, and market entry.
