As individuals and companies realize the importance and value of their inventions, issues surrounding patent laws and practices are taking center stage around the world. Thus, all inventors require a basic understanding of the patenting system if they are to successfully protect their inventions. The continuing increase in patent activity has spawned a number of new laws, and undoubtedly is affecting the interpretation of existing ones. To reflect these changes, the Second Edition of Patent Strategy: For Researchers and Research Managers has been reorganized and completely updated.

This book bridges the gap between the legal system and scientific research and avoids legal jargon; details the reasons behind patents, their importance and relevance to all researchers, and the strategy needed for filing for a patent; and focuses on strategy and reasons rather than merely presenting patent law. The syle is readable, and the subject matter passes from basics right up to strategy development.

From the Preface: “...Regardless of the technology, all potential inventors need a good foundation of understanding of the patenting system, and this is what this book attempts to provide. This book is not meant to be an advanced text of all the possible strategies available to an inventor or a company. It remains a basic guide for the inventor; a source of information to read and then keep for further reference...”

Target Audience: Recommended for inventors, researchers and research managers, as well as others involved in the patent process, and students interested in pursuing research and invention.

Table of Contents:

Basic Intellectual Property Concepts

The Value of Patents

Developing a Strategy

Researching with Intellectual Property in Mind

Infringement and Freedom to Operate

Working with Attorneys, Agents, and Liasons

Disclosure and Filing Decisions

After the Filing

The Future of Intellectual Property Efforts

References and Bibliography

Index