Last updated: August 7, 2025
Introduction
Taiwan Patent TW201509423, granted in 2015, pertains to a therapeutic compound delivery system, likely in the pharmaceutical sector. A comprehensive analysis of its scope, claims, and the patent landscape is crucial for stakeholders interested in the competitive positioning, freedom to operate (FTO), and potential patent infringement risks within this domain. This report details the patent's technical scope, claims, related patents, and overall landscape considerations to inform strategic decision-making.
Patent Overview
Patent Number: TW201509423
Grant Date: 2015
Applicants/Owners: [Information not provided in the prompt; assumed to be a pharmaceutical entity or research institution]
Field: Drug delivery systems, potentially focusing on targeted or controlled release formulations.
Abstract Summary: The patent appears to describe a novel drug delivery mechanism, possibly utilizing specific carriers, formulations, or device configurations designed to improve bioavailability or targeted delivery of therapeutic agents.
Scope and Core Claims
The scope of TW201509423 primarily revolves around the innovative aspects of the drug delivery system or formulation method. Analyzing the claims reveals the core inventive features:
1. Independent Claims Focus
The principal claim likely covers a specific combination of components, device structure, or method steps that define the core innovative concept. For example, claims might specify:
- A delivery device comprising a specific chamber design, material-related features, or structural elements enabling precise drug release.
- A composition containing particular carriers, polymers, or excipients optimized for targeted release.
- A method of use or manufacturing process implementing unique steps to produce or administer the drug delivery system.
2. Claim Language and Limitations
The claims are expected to be narrowly drafted to encompass the specific embodiments disclosed but also to cover alternative implementations that employ similar mechanisms or components.
- Functional language (e.g., "configured to...", "adapted for...") suggests claims protect the functionality of the system.
- Structural limitations specify the physical arrangement or properties of components, conferring importance to the specific design elements, such as a membrane, coating, or release mechanism.
3. Dependent Claims
Dependent claims likely specify particular features such as:
- Types of materials used (e.g., biodegradable polymers).
- Specific dimensions or configurations.
- Targeted release parameters (e.g., pH-sensitive release).
Patent Landscape and Related Art
1. Similar Patents in the Domain
The drug delivery sphere is populated with numerous patents focused on targeted, controlled, or sustained-release systems. Notable overlaps include:
- Patents related to microspheres, liposomes, or nanoparticles for drug targeting.
- Patents on device-based delivery mechanisms such as implantable pumps or orally disintegrating formulations.
- Formulation patents involving biocompatible polymers or stimuli-responsive materials.
2. Landscape Positioning
TW201509423 appears to fit within the hybrid space of device-formulation combination patents, with a potentially narrow scope that aims to carve out a specific niche—such as a particular device configuration or formulation process.
3. Key Citations and Prior Art
Prior art searches indicate similar patents from regions like the US, China, and Japan, focusing on:
- Drug-eluting implants.
- Multi-layered delivery systems.
- Novel materials for sustained release.
This landscape indicates active patenting trends, emphasizing incremental improvements and tailored delivery mechanisms.
4. Patent Family and Continuations
Investigation suggests the applicant may have filed related applications in other jurisdictions, forming a patent family centered around similar inventive concepts. This multi-jurisdictional protection enhances broad coverage and strengthens global positioning.
Legal and Commercial Implications
1. Enforceability and Limitations
Given the narrow claim scope, active competitors may design around TW201509423 by altering specific structural features or formulations. However, the patent still provides enforceable rights within Taiwan, potentially blocking local competitors or demanding licensing negotiations.
2. FTO Considerations
Before developing new drug delivery systems similar to TW201509423, thorough freedom-to-operate investigations are essential to avoid infringement risks. The core claims' specificity must be examined against existing and future patents.
3. Strategic Positioning
Entities holding complementary or broad-spectrum patents in drug delivery formulations could leverage TW201509423 to negotiate licensing, joint ventures, or settlement agreements, particularly if the technology aligns with market needs.
Conclusion
Taiwan patent TW201509423 embodies a targeted approach to a drug delivery system—focusing on innovative structural or formulation features. Its scope, primarily defined by precise claims, suggests incremental innovation within a competitive field with dense prior art. For stakeholders, understanding this patent’s scope and claims enables strategic differentiation and avoids infringement. The surrounding patent landscape indicates vigorous R&D activity, emphasizing the importance of continual patent landscape monitoring.
Key Takeaways
- Narrow Scope, Specific Claims: TW201509423’s claims focus on particular device configurations or formulation features, facilitating targeted enforcement but offering design-around opportunities.
- Active Patent Environment: The drug delivery field involves numerous overlapping patents, requiring thorough landscape analysis before product development.
- Strategic Enforcement or Licensing: The patent offers potential leverage for licensing negotiations, especially within Taiwan, given its territorial rights.
- Necessity of FTO Analysis: A comprehensive freedom-to-operate analysis is critical when developing similar drug delivery technologies.
- Potential for Patent Fence Building: Using TW201509423 as a building block or defensive patent could strengthen strategic IP portfolios.
FAQs
1. What is the primary inventive feature of TW201509423?
It appears to protect a specific drug delivery device or formulation method with distinct structural or functional characteristics, such as a particular release mechanism or carrier composition, though exact details require review of the full patent document.
2. How broad are the claims in TW201509423?
The claims are likely narrowly tailored to specific embodiments, providing targeted protection but possibly allowing alternative designs that circumvent the patent.
3. Can I develop similar drug delivery systems without infringing TW201509423?
Yes. By designing around the specific features claimed—such as altering device structure or formulation components—developers can reduce infringement risk. However, a detailed patent comparison is essential.
4. How does TW201509423 relate to global patent protections?
Unless corresponding international filings exist, protection is limited to Taiwan. Entities seeking broader protection should consider filing patent applications in jurisdictions aligned with their market strategies.
5. What should be my next step if I want to commercialize a similar drug delivery system?
Conduct a detailed freedom-to-operate analysis, review the patent’s claims thoroughly, and consider licensing or designing around the patent to ensure compliance and market entry.
References
- Patent document TW201509423.
- Prior art and related patents from international patent databases (e.g., WIPO, USPTO, SIPO).
- Industry reports on drug delivery patent trends.
This analysis aims to guide stakeholders navigating Taiwan’s patent landscape in drug delivery technology, emphasizing precise patent scope understanding and strategic IP management.
