News

  • The U.S. patent system, once a driving force behind technological advancement, is now widely seen as faltering. To restore its vitality, experts argue that a dedicated, long-term effort is needed to address its shortcomings. This discussion focuses on pinpointing the root causes of the system's decline and offering actionable solutions to reinvigorate it.

    In its heyday, particularly during the 1980s, the patent system thrived. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) successfully reduced its backlog, cutting the average pendency time to just 18 months.

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  • Innovation is thriving globally, with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) expecting to report a notable rise in patent applications for 2024. Based on historical trends and official patent data, over 3.8 million patent applications were filed worldwide in 2024—a 7% increase from the previous year.

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  • When drafting patent applications, the choice between "plurality" and "multiple" can indeed be tricky, as both terms have specific implications in patent law. Here are some key considerations:

    "Plurality":

       - Traditionally means "a number greater than one" in patent drafting practice.

       - Often used instead of phrases like "more than one" or "two or more" due to established conventions.

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  • If you want to get most of your patent try to use an Input-Processing-Output (IPO) approach for drafting patent claims. The IPO framework breaks the invention into three fundamental stages: Input, Processing, and Output. To illustrate this concept, picture a “black box” representing your invention — this box could be a processor, a server, a router, or any other hardware or software system.

    Here’s how the stages play out:

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  • When it comes to drafting a patent application, the selection of terms is a pivotal process that can significantly influence the clarity, enforceability, and scope of the patent. Let's delve into the key considerations and strategies for choosing the right terms in your patent application.

    The Significance of Term Selection

    Clarity and Precision: The terms you choose must clearly and precisely define your invention to prevent any ambiguity. Vague language can lead to interpretation challenges during legal proceedings or when enforcing your patent rights.

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