Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 10,774,072
Introduction
United States Patent 10,774,072, titled "Crystal of N-substituted sulfonamide compound," is a patent that delves into the production and characteristics of a specific class of chemical compounds. This analysis will explore the key aspects of this patent, including its claims, the process of producing the compounds, and the broader patent landscape.
Background of the Patent
The patent in question, US10774072B2, is focused on N-substituted sulfonamide compounds, which are important in various chemical and pharmaceutical applications. These compounds often serve as intermediates or final products in the synthesis of drugs and other chemical entities.
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are the main types of claims:
Independent Claims
These claims stand alone and define the broadest scope of the invention. For US10774072B2, the independent claims typically involve the method of producing the N-substituted sulfonamide compounds, including the specific steps and reactants involved.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims and provide more specific details or limitations. These claims might include variations in the reaction conditions, specific substituents on the sulfonamide group, or additional steps in the synthesis process.
Composition of Matter Claims
These claims focus on the N-substituted sulfonamide compounds themselves, describing their structure, properties, and any unique characteristics that distinguish them from prior art.
Method of Producing N-substituted Sulfonamide Compounds
The patent outlines a method for producing these compounds, which generally involves the reaction of a sulfonamide compound with a suitable substituent. Here are the key steps:
Reactants and Conditions
- The process starts with a sulfonamide compound, which is reacted with a substituent group under specific conditions.
- The reaction may involve catalysts, solvents, and temperature control to ensure the desired product is formed.
Reaction Steps
- The reaction typically involves a nucleophilic substitution or an electrophilic addition, depending on the nature of the substituent.
- The patent may specify particular reaction conditions, such as pH, temperature, and reaction time, to optimize the yield and purity of the product.
Purification and Characterization
- After the reaction, the product is purified using techniques such as crystallization, chromatography, or distillation.
- The purified compound is then characterized using analytical methods like NMR, IR, or X-ray crystallography to confirm its structure and properties.
Crystal Form of the Compounds
One of the significant aspects of this patent is the description of the crystal form of the N-substituted sulfonamide compounds. This includes:
Crystal Structure
- The patent details the crystal structure of the compounds, which can be crucial for their stability, solubility, and bioavailability.
- The crystal structure is often determined using X-ray crystallography.
Polymorphism
- The patent may also discuss polymorphism, where the compound can exist in multiple crystal forms, each with different properties.
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape for N-substituted sulfonamide compounds is complex and involves various players in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Prior Art
- The patent must distinguish itself from prior art, which includes existing methods and compounds in the field.
- The novelty and non-obviousness of the invention are critical for patentability[2].
Related Patents
- There are likely other patents related to sulfonamide compounds, each with their own specific claims and methods.
- These patents collectively form a mosaic of intellectual property in the field, influencing how new inventions are developed and protected.
Economic and Strategic Value
The value of a patent like US10774072B2 can be significant, both economically and strategically.
Valuation Methods
- The value of a patent can be determined using cost, income, and market approaches. For example, the cost approach considers the development costs, while the income approach looks at future benefits. The market approach compares the patent to similar assets that have been sold[4].
Market Impact
- Patents like this one can provide a competitive edge in the market by protecting unique methods and compounds.
- Companies may acquire or license such patents to enhance their product portfolio and protect their intellectual property.
Legal Considerations
The legal status and enforcement of the patent are crucial for its holders.
Patent Infringement
- The patent holder has the right to sue for infringement if another party uses the patented method or compound without permission.
- Legal battles, such as those seen in cases involving abstract ideas versus patent-eligible inventions, highlight the importance of clear and enforceable claims[2].
Small Claims Patent Court
- There is ongoing discussion about the establishment of a small claims patent court to handle smaller-scale patent disputes more efficiently and cost-effectively[5].
Key Takeaways
- Method of Production: The patent describes a specific method for producing N-substituted sulfonamide compounds, including reaction steps and conditions.
- Crystal Form: The crystal structure and polymorphism of the compounds are critical aspects of the patent.
- Patent Landscape: The patent must be distinguished from prior art and fits into a broader landscape of related patents.
- Economic Value: The patent's value can be determined using various methods and provides a strategic advantage in the market.
- Legal Considerations: Clear claims and enforcement mechanisms are essential for protecting the patent.
FAQs
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What is the main subject of US10774072B2?
- The main subject is the method of producing N-substituted sulfonamide compounds and the characteristics of these compounds.
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How are N-substituted sulfonamide compounds produced according to the patent?
- The production involves reacting a sulfonamide compound with a suitable substituent under specific conditions.
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Why is the crystal form of the compounds important?
- The crystal form affects the stability, solubility, and bioavailability of the compounds.
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How is the value of a patent like US10774072B2 determined?
- The value can be determined using cost, income, and market approaches.
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What is the significance of a small claims patent court in the context of this patent?
- A small claims patent court could provide a more efficient and cost-effective way to handle smaller-scale patent disputes related to this and similar patents.
Sources
- US10774072B2 - Crystal of N-substituted sulfonamide compound - Google Patents
- AI VISUALIZE, INC. v. NUANCE COMMUNICATIONS, INC. - CAFC
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- The value of a patent - Perpetual Motion Patents
- U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - ACUS
