Duy Lu

MAE 4188
Id #: 1000686730

Intellectual Property
In this seminar, we discuss about the important of intellectual property to
engineer. Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind, such as invention, literary
and artistic works, designs; and symbols, names and images used in commerce. IP is
protected in law to enable people to earn recognition or financial benefit from what they
invent or create. By striking the right balance between the interests of innovators and the
wider public interest, the IP system aims to foster an environment in which creativity and
innovation can flourish. There are 3 types of US patents such as utility, design and plant.
Utility patents protect structure, function, or us. It lasts 20 years from date of filing.
Design patents protect ornamental design-not function or use. It lasts 15 years from issue.
Trademarks protect marks indicating source of goods or services. It includes words,
slogans, and designs. It lasts indefinite term but must be periodically renewed. It requires
policing for different goods, services, markets. Copyrights protect creative expressions
reduced to a tangible form such as writings, art, sculpture, recordings, source codeincludes digital works. It automatically attaches when works is created- no marking
required. It must apply for registration.
Trade secrets includes formula, pattern, device, compilation of information,
program, method, technique, process, technique, process, financial data, or list or actual
or potential customers or suppliers that derives independent economic value, actual or
potential, from not being generally known to, and not being readily ascertainable by
proper means by, other persons who can obtain economic value from its disclosure or use.
Utility patents will be given to the first inventor to file or disclose. You need to have
patent to prevent competitors from using it. You also build portfolio-minefield
Utility application process includes disclosure, review, inventor interview, search,
application, examination, and issuance. It costs around $6K-20K. It is fees for attorneys,
searchers, illustrators and filing fees. Provisional application may cost less. Typical time
to file application is a few weeks. You can file provisional application immediately.
Typical time for patent to issue is 11/2 to 5 years. R&D leads to invention disclosure. ID
reviewed by peers/ management/ committee. Engineers can do much to help without in
house counsel and prior to reaching out to counsel. You also need to hire a good patent
attorney and have inventor interview. Prior-art searching should be used to determine IP.
Then, you prepare and file patent application.