The workshops will be a combination of interactive seminar (~30mins) and guided learning using open-source patent search databases (~30mins), plus Q&A. There will be many bad Star Wars jokes and references so please be prepared. Star Wars fancy dress is optional.
The workshops aim to:
- provide IP training for researchers, founders and those keen to learn more about Intellectual Property and particularly specifically patent searching.
convey:
- reasons for searching, e.g. technical knowledge, competitor intelligence, novelty (patentability) searching, FTO.
- an understanding of the patent timeline, terminology and when is good to do patent searching.
- the different types of patent searching and how this can evolve from landscape searches to novelty to freedom-to-operate (FTO)
- the risks and limitations of self-directed patent searching
- enable attendees to gain a deeper understanding of the patent literature in their area of interest. Includes how to set up automated alerts (recurring searches).
There is no prior knowledge required. Fundamentals of the patent system will be outlined.
Materials provided to attendees
- PDF slide-decks with workshop slides outlining key concepts and search strategies
- Patent literature search template for future use to guide search strategy and record insights
- Example patent literature search report relating to COVID vaccines
- PDF info sheet on searching
- PDF info sheet on patent specification
Learning objectives
After completing this course, attendees will:
- Understand what patents are and how to access information about them
- Appreciate the benefits of reviewing patents for technical concept research
- Understand when to carry out a search, which type of search is appropriate and when to contact an IP professional
- Prepare a search strategy which efficiently captures the patents relevant to an area of research
- Complete a search using open-source patent databases and evaluate the search results.
- Analyse patent data to gain insights into competitor strategy and technology trends
Session 1
- Intro to patents and key criteria for grant (novelty, inventive step and written description)
- Review of different search types and reasons for patent searching
- Directed learning doing patent searching using online open-source databases
- Round-up including when to speak to a patent attorney, risks and limitations of searching.
Please note there is no parking available on site. You may park on Balfour road for free up to 180 minutes.
You may come through either entrances of the Future House:
1. 40 Kenwyn street and via the lift up to level 3
2. 24 Balfour road ,down the stairs (near the site access sign on the road) to level 3 Boardroom
See you soon!
