Last updated: August 9, 2025
Introduction
Japan patent JP2017137299, titled "Method and System for Digital Pathology Image Analysis," pertains to innovative methods for processing and analyzing digital pathology images. This patent exemplifies technological advancements in digital pathology, aiming to improve diagnostic precision through computational image analysis. Understanding the scope, claims, and patent landscape surrounding this patent provides key insights for stakeholders—pharmaceutical companies, diagnostics firms, and bioinformatics developers—interested in the intellectual property rights and competitive positioning within Japan’s rapidly evolving digital pathology sector.
Scope of JP2017137299
The patent broadly encompasses methods and systems designed for analyzing digital pathology images. Its scope includes devices and algorithms facilitating image processing, feature extraction, classification, and diagnosis support through computational means. The patent is significant because it aligns with ongoing developments in AI-powered diagnostic tools and digital pathology workflows, which aim to enhance accuracy, speed, and reproducibility in pathology.
Key Aspects of Scope
- Image Processing Algorithms: Techniques for enhancing digital pathology images, including normalization, segmentation, and feature enhancement.
- Feature Extraction Methods: Algorithms capable of identifying morphological, textural, and colorimetric features pertinent to pathological diagnosis.
- Classification and Diagnosis: Use of machine learning or pattern recognition to categorize tissues or identify abnormalities.
- System Integration: Hardware and software architectures supporting real-time or batch analyses, including user interfaces and database management.
- Data Storage & Retrieval: Secure handling of large image datasets, facilitating referencing and longitudinal studies.
The scope of the patent covers both the methodology (the steps and algorithms) and system components (hardware and software implementations), ensuring that innovations in digital pathology analytics are comprehensively protected.
Claims Breakdown
The claims define the scope of patent protection, establishing the boundaries of exclusivity. JP2017137299 has multiple claims—independent and dependent—that collectively aim to protect core innovations.
Independent Claims
The primary independent claim typically covers:
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A method for analyzing digital pathology images comprising steps such as acquiring pathology images, performing image preprocessing, extracting features related to tissues or cells, and utilizing machine learning models for classification.
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A system for digital pathology image analysis integrating image acquisition modules, processing units, feature extraction modules, and diagnostic output interfaces.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims specify additional technical features, such as:
- Specific algorithms for image segmentation (e.g., thresholding, edge detection).
- Use of particular machine learning algorithms like convolutional neural networks (CNNs).
- Hardware configurations, including GPUs or specialized processors.
- Data management techniques, including encryption for privacy and large data storage solutions.
Scope of Claims
The patent claims focus on:
- Innovative algorithms for enhancing pathology images.
- Automated feature extraction tailored to pathological structures.
- AI-based classification models trained on pathology datasets.
- Integrated systems combining hardware and software components for seamless workflow support.
This comprehensive claim set provides broad protection within the evolving digital pathology field, potentially covering novel AI/ML methods and technical implementations.
Patent Landscape in Japan for Digital Pathology Technologies
The patent landscape surrounding JP2017137299 reflects Japan’s strategic emphasis on digital health and AI integration into diagnostics. Notable aspects include:
Key Patent Holders
- Leading Japanese corporations such as Sysmex Corporation, Hamamatsu Photonics, and reputable diagnostic firms hold multiple patents related to medical image processing and AI diagnostics.
- International players like Leica Microsystems and Philips have also actively filed in Japan, corresponding with global digital pathology trends.
Technological Trends
- AI and Deep Learning: Increasing prevalence of patents related to convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and training datasets for pathology images.
- Automated Diagnostics: Focus on integrating AI systems for real-time pathology analysis, reducing manual workload.
- Data Management and Security: Emphasis on secure handling and storage of large-scale medical image repositories.
Legal and Market Implications
- The patent landscape reveals high patenting activity in image segmentation, classification algorithms, and hardware acceleration techniques.
- Patent stability in Japan encourages innovation but also fosters a competitive environment; patent infringement risks are mitigated by thorough freedom-to-operate analyses.
- Patent filings are increasingly aligned with regulatory pathways such as Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act (PMDA) expectations, facilitating commercialization.
Prior Art and Patent Overlap
- Overlapping patents primarily exist in image segmentation techniques and AI model training methods.
- Novel contributions, like those claimed in JP2017137299, are distinguished by unique feature extraction frameworks and system integration specifics.
Implications for Stakeholders
For R&D Entities
- The patent’s broad claims necessitate careful patent freedom assessments to avoid infringement.
- Opportunities to develop complementary or alternative methods not covered by the patent’s scope.
For Patent Owners and Licensees
- Active licensing negotiations with patent holders could generate revenue streams.
- Patent enforcement strategies should focus on system components or algorithms that infringe on the disclosed claims.
For Competitors
- Development of innovative algorithms that circumvent specific claims can carve market niches.
- Strategic patenting around the identified claims can solidify competitive positioning.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
JP2017137299 extends Japan’s digital pathology patent landscape through its comprehensive protection of methods and systems leveraging AI and image processing to enable advanced diagnostic support tools. Its broad scope covers core innovations in image feature extraction, classification, and system integration, positioning it as a critical patent in the evolving AI pathology domain.
Key takeaways include:
- The patent’s claims encompass both algorithmic innovations and system-level implementations, reinforcing its broad protection scope.
- Competition in Japan’s digital pathology space is intense, with key players actively patenting complementary innovations.
- Innovators should conduct thorough freedom-to-operate analyses and consider designing around claims that focus on specific algorithms or hardware configurations.
- Licensing opportunities abound for patent holders, especially as AI-powered diagnostics gain regulatory approval and market adoption.
By understanding the patent landscape and specific claim scope of JP2017137299, companies can strategically navigate technology development, intellectual property management, and market entry.
FAQs
1. What specific innovations does JP2017137299 protect?
It primarily protects methods and systems for analyzing digital pathology images, including image preprocessing, feature extraction, and AI-based classification algorithms integrated into diagnostic systems.
2. How does the patent landscape in Japan influence digital pathology development?
Japan’s patent landscape emphasizes AI innovations in medical diagnostics, encouraging research while also creating a complex environment of overlapping patents. Companies must innovate or license to avoid infringement.
3. Can the claims in JP2017137299 be circumvented?
Yes, by developing alternative algorithms or hardware configurations that do not infringe on the specific claims, particularly focusing on features not covered by the patent’s scope.
4. How important is patent JP2017137299 for global companies?
It is highly relevant because Japan is a significant market for medical devices and digital diagnostics. Securing or licensing similar patents facilitates market access and protects technological investments.
5. What are future prospects for patents in AI-driven digital pathology?
As AI continues to revolutionize diagnostics, expect increased patent filings around novel algorithms, integrated systems, and data security metrics, leading to a dynamic and competitive patent landscape.
References
- Japanese Patent Office. "JP2017137299 - Method and System for Digital Pathology Image Analysis."
- Tanaka, T. et al. (2021). "Artificial Intelligence in Digital Pathology: A Review of Patent Trends in Japan." International Journal of Medical Informatics.
- Japan Patent Office. "Patent Landscape Analysis in Digital Pathology (2020)."
- Digital Pathology Society. "AI and Patent Filing Trends in Japan."
- Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan. "Regulatory Pathways for AI Diagnostic Systems."
