(4a) Equations of Change: How Patent Law Has Changed, and What Changes Are to Come | AIChE

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(4a) Equations of Change: How Patent Law Has Changed, and What Changes Are to Come

Authors 

Wendt, J. L. - Presenter, The Wendt Firm PC

Patent law, particularly in the United States, has undergone many changes in the last 20 years, both in the courts and in the patent statute. My focus will be on what those changes have been, what changes are likely to come, and how these changes impact practicing chemical engineers.  For example, 20 years ago the so-called "doctrine of equivalents" was widely used to ensnare infringers of patents. Now, the doctrine is almost an afterthought. My thoughts will touch on whether this is good or bad.  Another change has been the term of patents. Before 1995, an issued patent had a term of 17 years from issue, even if the patent application had been filed many years before. Now, patents are granted for 20 years from the earliest filing date claimed as priority. Finally, I will touch on how a change to a "first to file" patent regime will make life different for engineer/inventors than the present "first to invent" system, particularly for small entities.    

Topics 

Management

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