An Introduction to the Patent System

Abstract:: This 17-minute video is designed to be shown to jurors in patent jury trials. It contains important background information intended to help jurors understand what patents are, why they are needed, how inventors get them, the role of the Patent and Trademark Office, and why disputes over patents arise. An Introduction to the Patent System was developed with the assistance of an advisory committee of district judges and patent attorneys. Special care was taken to ensure that it provides an impartial and objective view of the patent process. It is, however, up to the individual trial judge to decide whether or not to use this video in patent jury trials. The Center is simply making it available as a resource. Attorneys and other members of the public who would like to watch the program may download it from this page.

Inventions and Patents, Fall 2003

Abstract:: Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Description given at end of this chapter in SWE section. This course explores current research concerning patent law and its role in the rapidly changing world of high technology. It is offered in the fall semester as an undergraduate course (6.901) and in the spring semester as a graduate course (6.931). The content for both courses is largely overlapping, and is presented together on this site

Abstract:: This course explores the history of private and public rights in scientific discoveries and applied engineering, leading to the development of worldwide patent systems. The classes of invention protectable under the patent laws of the U.S., including the procedures in protecting inventions in the Patent Office and the courts will be examined. A review of past cases involving inventions and patents in: the chemical process industry and medical pharmaceutical, biological, and genetic-engineering fields; devices in the mechanical, ocean exploration, civil, and/or aeronautical fields; the electrical, computer, software, and electronic areas, including key radio, solid-state, computer and software inventions; and also software protection afforded under copyright laws. Periodic joint real-time class sessions and discussions by video-audio Internet conferencing, with other universities will also be conducted.