Chicago Town Hall Meeting to Focus on Proposed Rule Changes to Improve Patent Examination
Posted by J Matthew Buchanan at January 31, 2006 11:29 AM
MEDIA ADVISORY | January 31, 2006 |
Chicago Town Hall Meeting to Focus on Proposed Rule Changes to Improve Patent Examination
Washington, D.C. -- In a Town Hall Meeting, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) will provide background information regarding proposed new rule changes to improve patent examination. The changes will make the patent examination process more effective and efficient by reducing the amount of rework by the USPTO and reducing the time it takes for the patent review process.
| WHAT: | Town Hall Meeting An overview of the challenges the USPTO faces and the reasons why the proposed new rules are necessary. A question and answer session will follow immediately after presentations. |
| WHO: | John Doll, Commissioner for Patents James Toupin, USPTO General Counsel Patent attorneys, patent agents, independent inventors and members of the small business community |
| WHEN: | Wednesday, February 1, 2006 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. |
| WHERE: | Downtown campus of Northwestern University in the Arthur Rubloff Building, Thorne Auditorium, 375 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL. |
For more information, please go to http://www.uspto.gov/web/patents/townhall.htm.
# # #
USPTO Mourns the Death of Former Commissioner Banner
USPTO Mourns the Death of Former Commissioner Banner
Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office Jon Dudas issued the following statement upon learning of the death on January 29, 2006, of Donald W. Banner, a former Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks (1978-1979).
"On behalf of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, I want to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of Donald W. Banner. “As Commissioner of Patents and Trademarks, President of the American Intellectual Property Law Association, and in many other capacities, Don worked tirelessly to promote respect for intellectual property. He gained national attention for intellectual property rights when he led the bicentennial celebration of U.S. patent and copyright law in 1990. Don Banner and his important efforts to encourage innovation will long be remembered by our Office and by inventors across America."
USPTO to Hold IP Conference for California Small Businesses on Protecting Their Intellectual Property From Theft
Posted by J Matthew Buchanan at January 29, 2006 07:59 AM
USPTO to Hold IP Conference for California Small Businesses on Protecting Their Intellectual Property From Theft
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) will open a two-day conference for small businesses on “Intellectual Property in the Global Marketplace” on Monday, February 27 at the Westin Horton Plaza Hotel, 910 Broadway Circle, San Diego, California. The conference is part of STOP (Strategy Targeting Organized Piracy) a major federal government effort to protect American businesses from falling victim to intellectual property theft - both domestically and abroad.
In today's global marketplace, an individual or a business halfway around the world can steal American products and branding without the rightful owner even being aware of it. Small businesses are particularly at risk because they may lack the knowledge and expertise to effectively combat such theft. In recognition of this need, USPTO is hosting a series of seminars across the country to help educate American small businesses about the realities of piracy and counterfeiting and steps they can take to protect themselves.
During the two-day seminar, patent, trademark and copyright experts and lawyers from the USPTO will provide small- and medium-sized businesses, entrepreneurs, and independent inventors interested in manufacturing or selling their products abroad with specific details and useful tips about protecting and enforcing their intellectual property rights in the United States and around the world.
A day-two feature will be one-on-one consultations with intellectual property experts available for conference attendees.
There is no charge for the conference, but seating is limited.
Electronic Processing of Information Disclosure Statement [signed 24 January 2006] (24Jan2006)
Posted by J Matthew Buchanan at January 26, 2006 08:17 PM
Electronic Processing of Information Disclosure Statement [signed 24 January 2006] (24Jan2006)
View and/or download a .pdf of this notice at the following URL:
http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/pac/dapp/opla/preognotice/e_IDSprocess012406.pdf
USPTO Announces PatentIn 3.3 Training
Posted by J Matthew Buchanan at January 24, 2006 08:46 AM
USPTO Announces PatentIn 3.3 Training
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is pleased to announce a free training session for PatentIn 3.3 on Friday, March 24, 2006. The session will run from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM, with a one-hour lunch break from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
Course Content:
The class will include:
- Overview of molecular biology
- Overview of the sequence rules
- Hands-on authoring of several sequence listings varying in complexity
Questions are welcome throughout the training. In addition, the instructor is available after class to assist customers with their sequence listings.
Course Instructor:
The instructor is Robert Wax, a Primary Examiner in Art Unit 1653, the former Project Manager of PatentIn and one of the USPTO's sequence rule experts.
Course Location:
The class will be held at USPTO's new headquarters in the Madison West Building. The Madison Building is located at 600 Dulany Street, Alexandria, Virginia. Participants will meet in the lobby and be escorted through Security to the training room. Please visit our website for directions to our office: http://www.uspto.gov/main/directions_alex.htm.
Registration Information:
To register for this class or for additional information, please send an email to patin3help@uspto.gov or call (571) 272-0623.
This session has a maximum capacity of 16 participants. Attendees will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If the USPTO receives more requests than space permits, additional sessions will be scheduled at a future date.
Parking information:
Parking is available in the West Garage, located at 550 Elizabeth Lane or the East Garage, located at 551 John Carlyle Street, Alexandria, Virginia. The daily rates are:
Garage Rates*:
* Rates apply to all vehicle types including motorcycles.
1 hour $3.00
2 hours $6.00
3 hours $9.00
Maximum $10.00
Directions from Metro:
- Take the yellow or blue line to the King Street station in Alexandria;
- Walk three (3) blocks SOUTH, across the parking lot, Diagonal Road, and Duke Street.
The George Washington Masonic Memorial will be to your RIGHT and behind you and the USPTO Headquarters will be in front of you.
The Madison Building is the center building at the end of Dulany Street. Madison West Building is on your right when you enter the front of the building with the peaked glass ceiling.
Patent Lawsuit Filing Update (2006.01.23)
Posted by Stephen M. Nipper at January 23, 2006 10:23 AM
Cases filed since December 13, 2005 (updated).
Please forward this to anyone you think would find it useful.
Subscription information can be found here: http://www.rethinkip.com/archives/rss_email_patent_lawsuit_filing_notices.html
(PS) Recht et al v. USA
caedce
2:2006cv00092
1/13/2006
A.T. Cross Company et al v. Proinnovative, Inc. et al
ridce
1:2006cv00020
1/17/2006
Acutherm, L.P. v. Rickard Air Diffusion, Inc. et al
candce
3:2006cv00402
1/20/2006
AFP v. DURRSET AMIGOS, LTD.
paedce
2:2005cv06416
12/13/2005
Aventis Pharma Deutschland GmbH et al v. Lupin Ltd. et al
vaedce
2:2005cv00729
12/13/2005
Baker-Baumann et al v. Walker et al
ohsdce
3:2006cv00017
1/19/2006
Cascade Microtech, Inc. v. Suss Microtec Inc. et al
ordce
3:2006cv00080
1/19/2006
Caught Fish Enterprises, LLC et al v. E & V, Inc. et al
codce
1:2006cv00030
1/9/2006
COMPUTER DOCKING STATION CORPORA vs. DELL, INC.
wiwdc
3:2006cv00032
1/17/2006
Craft House Corporation v. Lanard Toys, Incorporated et al
miedce
2:2006cv10219
1/17/2006
Crater Corporation v. Lucent Technologies, et al
moedce
4:1998cv00913
12/13/2005
Defenstech International Inc v. Line-X Franchise Development Corporation et al
cacdce
8:2005cv01217 12/13/2005
DURDIN, RALPH F. vs. KURYAKYN HOLDINGS, INC.
wiwdc
3:2006cv00039
1/20/2006
Einstruction v. Qwizdom Inc
txedce
6:2005cv00470
12/13/2005
EML Technologies LLC v. Leen & Associates, Inc. et al
txedce
2:2006cv00018
1/12/2006
E-WATCH, INC. vs. CAPTURE TECHNOLOGIES
txwdc
5:2006cv00059
1/17/2006
Felix v. American Honda Motor Co., Inc
ksdce
2:2005cv02525
12/13/2005
Foodie Partners v. Jamba Juice Company
txedce
2:2006cv00012
1/9/2006
Genentech, Inc. v. Medimmune, Inc.
txedce
2:2006cv00020
1/17/2006
Grasty v. PTO
vaedce
1:2006cv00040
1/10/2006
Helena Laboratories Corporation v. Alpha Scientific Corporation
txedce
1:2006cv00016
1/12/2006
Humanscale Corporation v. Knoll, Inc.
txedce
2:2006cv00013
1/10/2006
Knoll, Inc. v. Humanscale Corporation
nysdce
1:2006cv00278
1/12/2006
L G Sourcing, Incorporated et al v. James Ellwanger, LLC et al
ncwdce
5:2006cv00006
1/13/2006
McKesson Automation Inc. v. Swisslog Holding AG et al
dedce
1:2006cv00028
1/13/2006
Miller Manufacturing Company v. Porter Hill Inc.
vtdce
2:2006cv00012
1/13/2006
National Oilwell Varco, L P v. Hydril Company, L P
txsdce
4:2006cv00170
1/13/2006
Perricone, et al v. Medicis Pharmaceutic
ctdce
3:1999cv01820
1/13/2006
Quinn v. Microsoft Corporation
vawdce
7:2005cv00757
12/13/2005
R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company v. Quark Inc. et al
dedce
1:2006cv00032
1/17/2006
Rambus Inc v. Micron Technology Inc. et al
candce
3:2006cv00244
1/13/2006
Raymond Caluori v. Robert Bosch GmbH et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08681
12/13/2005
RSVP Operations LLC v. Reflex Packaging Inc.
candce
3:2006cv00299
1/17/2006
Sandisk Corporation v. STMicroelectronics, Inc. et al
candce
4:2006cv00194
1/11/2006
Sanijet Corporation v. Beauty Mall, Ltd et al
txndce
3:2006cv00135
1/19/2006
Sensitron v. Wallace
utdce
2:2006cv00063
1/20/2006
Sklar v. Microsoft Corporation
txedce
2:2006cv00007
1/6/2006
Surevoid Products, Inc. v. VoidForm International, Ltd.
codce
1:2006cv00073
1/13/2006
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company LTD. et al v. Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc.
dedce
1:2006cv00033
1/17/2006
Teknor Apex Company v. Ames True Temper, Inc.
ridce
1:2006cv00027
1/20/2006
Textron Innovations, Inc. et al v. Fairplay Electric Cars, LLC
gasdce
1:2006cv00009
1/17/2006
THE SOLLAMI COMPANY v. KENNAMETAL INC.
pawdce
2:2006cv00062
1/13/2006
Truss Industry Production Systems, Inc. v. Alpine Engineered Products, Inc.
sddce
1:2006cv01003
1/18/2006
VENETEC INTL INC vs. MEDICAL DEVICE GROUP
casdc
3:2006cv00083
1/13/2006
WPG, LLC et al v Hybrid Technologies, Inc.
arwdce
5:2006cv05013
1/18/2006
Zoltar Satellite systems, Inc., v. LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company et al
candce
5:2006cv00044
1/6/2006
Miscellaneous Changes to Trademark Trial and Appeal Board Rules
Posted by J Matthew Buchanan at January 20, 2006 04:14 PM
Miscellaneous Changes to Trademark Trial and Appeal Board Rules (17Jan2006).
View and/or download a .pdf of this notice at the following URL:
http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/com/sol/notices/71fr2498.pdf
USPTO Kicks Off Town Hall Meeting in Chicago February 1
Posted by J Matthew Buchanan at January 19, 2006 08:21 AM
USPTO Kicks Off Town Hall Meeting in Chicago February 1
Register Now
In an upcoming series of Town Hall Meetings, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) will provide background information regarding proposed new rule changes. The first Town Hall Meeting will be held February 1, 2006, in Chicago, IL. The USPTO and Northwestern University will co-sponsor the event at the downtown campus of Northwestern University in the Arthur Rubloff Building, Thorne Auditorium. The meeting will be held from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The proposed rule changes relate to the examination of claims, continuing applications, requests for continued examination and applications containing patentably indistinct claims. The changes will make the patent examination process more effective and efficient by reducing the amount of rework by the USPTO and the time it takes for the patent review process. In addition they will improve the quality of issued patents and ensure that the USPTO continues to promote innovation.
Commissioner for Patents John Doll and James Toupin, the agency’s general counsel, will provide an overview of the challenges the USPTO faces and the reasons why the proposed new rules are necessary. A question and answer session will follow immediately after their presentations.
Registration is free and CLE credit may be available.
The Town Hall Meetings are for patent attorneys, patent agents, independent inventors and members of the small business community.
For registration information, please go to http://www.uspto.gov/web/patents/townhall.htm or call 571-272-8850.
Details regarding future Town Hall Meetings in California, Texas and Washington, D.C., will be posted on the USPTO Web site at a later date.
Patent Lawsuit Filing Update (2006.01.13)
Posted by Stephen M. Nipper at January 13, 2006 11:21 AM
Cases filed since December 8, 2005 (updated).
Please forward this to anyone you think would find it useful.
Subscription information can be found here: http://www.rethinkip.com/archives/rss_email_patent_lawsuit_filing_notices.html
Ablaise Ltd et al v. J&R Electronics Inc
ilndce
1:2006cv00129
1/10/2006
Acacia Media Technologies Corporation v. Club Jenna, Inc. et al
candce
3:2005cv05304
12/21/2005
AGUILA vs. ATTAIR INSTRUMENTS
flsdc
1:2005cv23328
12/27/2005
ALIGN TECHNOLOGY, INC. vs. ORTHOCLEAR, INC.
wiwdc
3:2006cv00023
1/11/2006
AngioDynamics Inc. v. Diomed Holdings Inc.
dedce
1:2006cv00002
1/3/2006
Anthony Inc v. Gemtron Corporation
cacdce
2:2006cv00040
1/3/2006
Apple Computer Inc. v. Burst.com, Inc.
candce
3:2006cv00019
1/4/2006
Arrival Star (Jersey) Limited v. TradeBeam, Inc. et al
ilndce
1:2006cv00082
1/6/2006
ARRIVAL STAR (JERSEY) LIMITED v. UNITED SHIPPERS CORPORATION OF NEW YORK, INC.
njdce
2:2006cv00056
1/6/2006
Arrival Star, Inc. v. Pilot Air Freight Corp.
ilndce
1:2006cv00051
1/5/2006
Atkinson v. Moe's Southwest Grill et al
gandce
1:2005cv03325
12/30/2005
ATSER, L.P. vs. INTERSTATE QUALITY D
txwdc
1:2006cv00018
1/9/2006
Bradford Novelty Co., Inc. v. Tang
madce
1:2005cv12614
12/30/2005
Bristol Company Limited Partnership v. Bosch Rexroth Incorporated et al
codce
1:2006cv00011
1/4/2006
BULLET LINE, INC. vs. EMPIRE USA PEN
flsdc
1:2006cv20023
1/6/2006
Calnetix Inc et al v. Arete Power Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08954
12/27/2005
Captaris Inc v. Premiere Global Services Inc
wawdce
2:2005cv02152
12/30/2005
Chemfree Corporation v. Zymo International, Inc.
gandce
1:2005cv03323
12/30/2005
Clinical Innovations v. Tyco Healthcare Group et al
utdce
2:2006cv00006
1/4/2006
Clinical Innovations v. Utah Medical Products, Inc.
utdce
2:2006cv00012
1/4/2006
Clontech, et al v. Invitrogen Corp
mddce
8:2000cv01879
1/10/2006
Curry v. Berger et al
ohndce
1:2005cv03000
12/30/2005
Datascape, Inc. v. Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications, Inc.
gandce
1:2005cv03317
12/29/2005
Depomed, Inc. v. Ivax Corporation et al
candce
3:2006cv00100
1/9/2006
Digital Development Corporation v. General Software, Inc. et al
nysdce
1:2006cv00091
1/5/2006
DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION v. PHOENIX TECHNOLOGIES LTD. et al
njdce
2:2006cv00011
1/4/2006
Digital Image Systems Corporation v. Data Management Products Inc.
nysdce
1:2005cv10901
12/30/2005
E.P. Consulting, Inc. et al v. BDP Innovative Chemicals Company
azdce
2:2006cv00009
1/3/2006
EML Technologies LLC v. Leen & Associates, Inc. et al
txedce
2:2006cv00018
1/12/2006
Eon-Net LP v. Flagstar Bancorp
wawdce
2:2005cv02129
12/27/2005
Faro Technologies, Inc. v. Cimcore Corporation et al
flmdce
6:2006cv00031
1/10/2006
Fleur T Tehrani v. International Cycle Works Inc et al
cacdce
8:2006cv00020
1/9/2006
Furminator, Inc. v. Ontel Products Corp. et al
moedce
4:2006cv00023
1/5/2006
GA INDUSTRIES, INC. v. ROSS VALVE MANUFACTURING CO., INC.
pawdce
2:2006cv00036
1/10/2006
General Mills, Inc. v. Hom/Ade Foods Sales, Inc.
txedce
2:2006cv00003
1/5/2006
GN Netcom, Inc. v. Klein Electronics, Inc.
madce
1:2005cv11768
1/11/2006
Golden Bridge Technology, Inc. v. LG Electronics Mobilecomm USA., Inc.,
txedce
2:2006cv00015
1/11/2006
Goodman v. NanoAmp Solutions, Inc.
candce
3:2005cv05313
12/22/2005
Grizzly Industrial Inc v. Richen Enterprise Inc et al
wawdce
2:2006cv00017
1/5/2006
Helix Information Services Inc v. Hawaiian Gardens Casino
cacdce
2:2005cv08935
12/27/2005
Homeshield v. Endura Products, Incorporated
miedce
2:2006cv10169
1/11/2006
Iljin USA v. NTN Corporation
miedce
2:2006cv10145
1/10/2006
Interlates Limited et al v. Kemira Chemicals Inc. et al
wawdce
3:2004cv05834
1/3/2006
Invitrogen Corp v. Clontech
mddce
8:1996cv04080
1/10/2006
Isensee v. HO Sports Company, Inc.
mndce
0:2006cv00210
1/12/2006
Koninklijke Philips Electronics NV et al v. Davenport International Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08943
12/27/2005
Koninklijke Philips Electronics NV et al v. KM Digital Media Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08946
12/27/2005
Koninklijke Philips Electronics NV et al v. Sunshine Films Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08987
12/29/2005
Kroy Building Products, Inc. v. Veka, Inc. et al
ncedce
5:2005cv00871
12/30/2005
L & S LICENSING, INC vs. JEROMES FURNITURE
casdc
3:2006cv00024
1/10/2006
LEGEND FILMS INC vs. WESTWING STUDIOS INC
casdc
3:2006cv00036
1/6/2006
Lifetime Products v. Wok & Pan IND et al.
utdce
1:2006cv00008
1/10/2006
MACIE PUBLISHING CO. v. RHYTHM BAND INSTRUMENTS, INC.
njdce
2:2006cv00017
1/4/2006
Nuell Inc v. Spectrum Surgical Instruments Inc
inndce
3:2006cv00026
1/10/2006
Panduit Corp v. Leviton Manufacturing Company Inc
ilndce
1:2006cv00025
1/4/2006
Panduit Corp v. Tyco Electronics Corporation
ilndce
1:2006cv00024
1/4/2006
PETROLEUM ANALYZER vs. MORRIS
txwdc
5:2005cv01236
12/27/2005
PHG Technologies, LLC v. TimeMed Labeling Systems, Inc. et al
tnmdce
3:2005cv01091
12/30/2005
PORTFOLIO TECHNOLOGI v. REDDY MEDTECH, LTD., et al
njdce
2:1999cv00889
1/4/2006
Produits Berger S.A. et al v. Schemenauer et al
txedce
2:2006cv00002
1/4/2006
Recreation Systems, Inc. v. Lippert Components et al
utdce
1:2006cv00007
1/10/2006
Registrar Systems LLC v. Amazon.com, Inc. et al
codce
1:2005cv02676
12/30/2005
Remote Incorporated v. Radiant Systems, Inc. et al
mndce
0:2006cv00139
1/6/2006
Repligen Corporation et al v. Bristol-Myers Squibb Company
txedce
2:2006cv00004
1/5/2006
Rubbermaid Incorporated v. Plano Molding Company
ohndce
5:2006cv00074
1/11/2006
Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corporation v. Advanced Flexible Composites, Inc
madce
4:2005cv40226
12/29/2005
Sentillion Inc. v. Carefx Corp.
dedce
1:2006cv00013
1/6/2006
Sepracor Inc. v. Breath Limited
madce
1:2006cv10043
1/9/2006
Serconet, Ltd v. Merlot Communications, Inc. et al
nysdce
1:2006cv00013
1/3/2006
Sliptrack Systems Inc v. California Expanded Metal Company
cacdce
2:2006cv00089
1/5/2006
SMITHKLINE BEECHAM CORPORATION et al v. TEVA PHARMACEUTICALS USA, INC.
paedce
2:2003cv03365
12/30/2005
SMITHKLINE BEECHAM, et al v. ANDRX PHARM., INC., et al
paedce
2:2001cv02981
1/9/2006
Softvault Systems, Inc. v. Microsoft Corporation
txedce
2:2006cv00016
1/11/2006
Softvault Systems, Inc. v. Yahoo! Inc et al
txedce
2:2006cv00017
1/11/2006
Steven Madden, Ltd. v. Global Brand Marketing, Inc.
nyedce
1:2006cv00096
1/9/2006
Stravitz v. Rubbermaid Incorporated et al
nysdce
1:2006cv00080
1/5/2006
Street Scene Manufacturing Inc v. Randon Products Corporation
cacdce
2:2006cv00076
1/5/2006
SYNERGETICS, INC. v. PEREGRINE SURGICAL, LTD. et al
paedce
2:2006cv00107
1/10/2006
Synvasive Technology, Inc. v. Stryker Corporation
caedce
2:2006cv00049
1/9/2006
UNITRONICS 1989 R G LTD., et al v. GHARB
dcdce
1:2006cv00027
1/10/2006
Unity Semiconductor Corporation v. Kelber
candce
5:2006cv00092
1/9/2006
US Philips Corporation v. KXD Technology Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08953
12/27/2005
USAmerican LLC v. Oakley Inc et al
cacdce
2:2006cv00010
1/3/2006
Verity Instruments Inc et al v. Kla-Tencor Corporation
txndce
3:2006cv00005
1/3/2006
Watlow Electric Manufacturing Company v. Cal Controls, Inc.
moedce
4:2006cv00010
1/3/2006
Watlow Electric Manufacturing Company v. Danaher Corporation
moedce
4:2006cv00008
1/3/2006
Watlow Electric Manufacturing Company v. Danaher Corporation
moedce
4:2006cv00009
1/3/2006
Wealth Transfer Group LLC v. Rowe
ctdce
3:2006cv00024
1/6/2006
Zoltar Satellite systems, Inc., v. LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company et al
candce
5:2006cv00044
1/6/2006
Extension of the Pilot Pre-Appeal Brief Conference Program [signed 10 January 2006] (11Jan2006) [PDF]
Posted by J Matthew Buchanan at January 12, 2006 09:13 AM
View and/or download a copy of this .pdf at the link below:
http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/pac/dapp/opla/preognotice/preappealbrief_ext.pdf
USPTO PARTNERS WITH OPEN SOURCE COMMUNITY TO EXPAND PATENT EXAMINER ACCESS TO SOFTWARE CODE
USPTO PARTNERS WITH OPEN SOURCE COMMUNITY TO EXPAND
PATENT EXAMINER ACCESS TO SOFTWARE CODE
Alliance will focus on software-related patents
The Department of Commerce’s United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has created a partnership with the open source community to ensure that patent examiners have access to all available prior art relating to software code during the patent examination process.
Last month, USPTO representatives met with members of the open source software community, which provided an opportunity for members to discuss with the USPTO issues related to software patent quality. The meeting focused on getting the best prior art references to the examiner during the initial examination process.
The group agreed to improve prior art resources available to the USPTO; to develop a system to alert the public when USPTO publishes certain software-related applications so that interested parties can submit related prior art in accordance with relevant rules and law; and, to explore developing additional criteria for measuring the quality of software patents.
“For years now, we have been hearing concerns from the software community about the patent system,” Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property Jon Dudas commented. “It is important that those in the open source community are joining USPTO to provide resources that are key to examining software-related applications.”
A follow-up meeting on the new initiatives will be held at the USPTO headquarters in Alexandria, Va., on February 16. The session will be open to the public and devoted to working on details of the three initiatives and the development of additional proposals.
Details on the registration process and the agenda will be provided on our website later this month.
USPTO RELEASES ANNUAL LIST OF TOP 10 ORGANIZATIONS RECEIVING MOST U.S. PATENTS
USPTO RELEASES ANNUAL LIST OF TOP 10 ORGANIZATIONS
RECEIVING MOST U.S. PATENTS
American Innovation Continues to Top the Field
The Department of Commerce’s United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced today the 2005 top 10 global private sector patent recipients. Listed below are the 10 corporations receiving the most U.S. patents for inventions in 2005, along with their 2004 ranking.
“America’s technological and economic strength is the result of its tremendous ingenuity,” said Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property Jon Dudas. “The USPTO has taken and will continue to take aggressive steps that will enhance quality and improve productivity to ensure that U.S. intellectual property protection remains the best in the world, protecting American innovation and sustaining economic growth.”
| Preliminary Rank in 2005 | Preliminary Number of Patents in 2005 | Organization | (Final Rank in 2004) | (Final Number of Patents in 2004) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
2,941 |
International Business Machines Corporation |
(1) |
(3,248) |
| 2 |
1,828 |
Canon Kabushiki Kaisha |
(3) |
(1,805) |
| 3 |
1,797* |
Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. * |
(4) |
(1,775) |
| 4 |
1,688 |
Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. |
(2) |
(1,934) |
| 5 |
1,641 |
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. |
(6) |
(1,604) |
| 6 |
1,561 |
Micron Technology, Inc. |
(5) |
(1,760) |
| 7 |
1,549 |
Intel Corporation |
(7) |
(1,601) |
| 8 |
1,271 |
Hitachi, Ltd |
(8) |
(1,513) |
| 9 |
1,258 |
Toshiba Corporation |
(9) |
(1,311) |
| 10 |
1,154 |
Fujitsu Limited |
(11) |
(1,296) |
*Calendar year counts for 2005 for Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. include seven patents issued to Hewlett-Packard Company.
Changes to Practice for Continuing Applications, Requests for Continued Examination Practice, and Applications Containing Patentably Indistinct Claims, Notice of proposed rule making (03Jan2006)
Posted by J Matthew Buchanan at January 5, 2006 01:52 AM
Changes to Practice for the Examination of Claims in Patent Applications, Notice of proposed rule making (03Jan2006)
Changes to Practice for the Examination of Claims in Patent Applications, Notice of proposed rule making (03Jan2006)
USPTO Proposes Measures To Improve Patent Examination
Posted by J Matthew Buchanan at January 4, 2006 09:28 AM
USPTO Proposes Measures To Improve Patent Examination
Limiting claims and rework will improve quality and reduce the time it takes to issue a patent
The Department of Commerce’s United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), in its continuing efforts to make the patent examination process more effective and efficient, is proposing changes that would reduce the amount of rework by the USPTO and reduce the time it takes to issue a patent and the patent review process. Specifically, these initiatives will prioritize the claims reviewed during the examination process and better focus the agency’s examination of patent applications by requiring applicants to identify the most important claims to the invention.
The recognized value of patents to innovation has led to enormous increases in the number of patent applications filed each year. Since the USPTO's resources have not increased at the same rate as filings, it has become much more difficult to provide reliable, consistent and prompt patentability decisions. Delay in granting a patent can slow new products coming to market, and issuing patents for inventions that are not novel and non-obvious can impede competition and economic growth. Simply hiring more patent examiners will not slow the growth in the time it takes to get a patent or improve the quality of examination. This will occur only through the participation of applicants in facilitating more effective and efficient patent examination.
“Improving the patent process will take everyone working together—applicants and the USPTO,” noted Jon Dudas, Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. “Better quality applications mean better examination. We need more focus throughout and closure to the examination process.”
In FY 2004, almost one-third of the 355,000 new patent applications were directed to inventions that had already been reviewed by the USPTO, but applicants resubmitted them mostly with only limited changes to the claims or, sometimes with the same claims that the USPTO had previously rejected. While some resubmissions are necessary, addressing them detracts from the agency’s ability to examine new patent applications. Also, over 40% of new applications in FY 2004 had more than 20 claims. Although the initial examination of large numbers of claims may sometimes be necessary in certain complex applications, when these must be filed, applicants should be prepared to assist the agency in ensuring these applications don’t absorb a disproportionate amount of the limited time the USPTO has to review applications.
In the past two years the USPTO has instituted a number of measures to improve patent quality and also has implemented new metrics to measure the results. Results indicate that quality is improving. The percentage of patent examiners certified for promotion to full performance level increased from 59% in FY 2004 to 70% in FY 2005. The number of office actions complying with applicable laws and rules during examination improved to 86.2% from 82% the previous year. The compliance rate for final allowances improved from 94.8% to 96% from FY 2004 to FY 2005.
The new rules can be found at:
is required for these documents.
Patent Lawuit Filing Updpate (2006.01.02)
Posted by Stephen M. Nipper at January 2, 2006 11:08 AM
Cases filed since November 20, 2005 (updated).
Please forward this to anyone you think would find it useful.
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24P LLC v. Canon Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08870
12/21/2005
3D Systems, Incorporated v. Envisiontec, Incorporated et al
miedce
2:2005cv74891
12/27/2005
ACTICON TECHNOLOGIES v. ASKEY COMPUTER CORP, et al
njdce
2:2002cv02729
12/21/2005
Advantica, Inc. v. Environmental Pipeline Rehabilitation, Inc. et al
gasdce
5:2005cv00091
12/22/2005
AFP v. DURRSET AMIGOS, LTD.
paedce
2:2005cv06416
12/13/2005
Agit Global Inc et al v. Sport Dimension Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08901
12/22/2005
Akzenta Paneele + Profile GmbH v. Unilin Flooring N.C. LLC et al
mddce
1:2005cv03445
12/27/2005
Allan Block Corporation v. County Materials Corp. et al
mndce
0:2005cv02879
12/12/2005
Alloc Inc. et al v. Quick-step Flooring Inc.
dedce
1:2005cv00857
12/12/2005
ALLVIN WINE PRODUCTS USA INC. v. MASS BAR MATE, INC.
njdce
2:2005cv05897
12/21/2005
American Calcar Inc v. American Honda Motor Co Inc et al
txedce
6:2005cv00475
12/14/2005
Amini Innovation Corporation v. Ambiance International et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08909
12/22/2005
Amini Innovation Corporation v. City Furniture et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08921
12/22/2005
Andritz Inc. v. Prue et al
ordce
3:2005cv01866
12/9/2005
ANDRX PHARMACEUTICAL vs. GLAXOSMITHKLINE, PLC
flsdc
1:2005cv23264
12/20/2005
Applied Medical Resources Corporation v. Gaya Limited
cacdce
2:2005cv08914
12/22/2005
AQUA PRODUCTS, INC. v. SMARTPOOL, INC. et al
njdce
3:2005cv05856
12/16/2005
Arbinet-Thexchange, Inc. v. World-Link Telecom, Inc.
nyedce
1:2005cv05874
12/15/2005
ARMS REACH CONCEPTS, INC. v. SIMPLICITY, INC.
paedce
2:2005cv06594
12/16/2005
Aspex Eyewear, Inc. v. Cheuk Ho Optical
nysdce
1:2000cv02389
12/21/2005
Atlantic Construction Fabrics, Inc., et al v. Layfield Plastics Incorporated
flmdce
3:2005cv01328
12/28/2005
Aventis Pharma Deutschland GmbH et al v. Lupin Ltd. et al
vaedce
2:2005cv00729
12/13/2005
BALDWIN HARDWARE CORPORATION et al v. ROCKY MOUNTAIN HARDWARE, INC. et al
paedce
2:2005cv06662
12/20/2005
Barton et al v. Primeline Products, Inc.
flmdce
2:2005cv00615
12/27/2005
Beggs et al v. Bismarck Phoenix Equipment, Inc.
nddce
1:2005cv00126
12/5/2005
BG & Sons, LLC v. The Gap, Inc.
ilndce
1:2005cv07133
12/20/2005
Biax Corporation v. Philips Semiconductors B.V., et al
txedce
2:2005cv00544
12/9/2005
Biopolymer Engineering, Inc., v. Immudyne, Inc
mndce
0:2005cv02972
12/27/2005
BMG MUSIC et al v. DOE
paedce
2:2005cv06532
12/15/2005
Boehringer Ingelheim International GMBH et al v. Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc.
dedce
1:2005cv00854
12/12/2005
Bonutti IP, LLC v. Arthrocare Corporation
ilsdce
4:2005cv04216
12/12/2005
Cascade Microtech, Inc. v. Lucas/Signatone Corporation et al
ordce
3:2005cv01891
12/16/2005
Catch Curve, Inc. v. Open Text Corporation
gandce
1:2005cv03167
12/15/2005
Catch Curve, Inc. v. Smith Micro Software, Inc.
gandce
1:2005cv03125
12/9/2005
Caterpillar Inc v. Entec Engine Corporation et al
ilcdce
1:2005cv01394
12/21/2005
Centillion Data System LLC v. Cincinnati Bell Inc
ohsdce
1:2005cv00816
12/19/2005
Chamberlain Group, Inc., The v. Overhead Door Corporation
ilndce
1:2005cv07127
12/20/2005
Citron Electronics Company, Ltd. v. Toshiba Corporation
nysdce
1:2005cv10626
12/19/2005
Coast Foundry and Manufacturing Co et al v. WDI International Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08749
12/15/2005
Colibri Corporation v. Blazer Products, Incorporated
nysdce
1:2005cv10505
12/14/2005
Colibri Corporation v. Gargoyle Sales & Marketing Group, Inc.
nysdce
1:2005cv10506
12/14/2005
Computerized Cutters, Inc v. CLN of South Florida, Inc
txndce
3:2005cv02505
12/22/2005
Cooper Bauck Corp. v. Dolby Laboratories, Inc. et al
ilndce
1:2005cv07063
12/15/2005
Crater Corporation v. Lucent Technologies, et al
moedce
4:1998cv00913
12/13/2005
Datascape, Inc. v. Utstarcom, Inc.
gandce
1:2005cv03164
12/15/2005
Defenstech International Inc v. Line-X Franchise Development Corporation et al
cacdce
8:2005cv01217
12/13/2005
DESIGNED FOR AMERICA, LLC et al v. POINT & LINE U.S.A., INC.
njdce
1:2005cv05822
12/15/2005
DEX Products Inc. v. Houghteling et al
candce
4:2005cv05126
12/12/2005
Einstruction v. Qwizdom Inc
txedce
6:2005cv00470
12/13/2005
EISAI CO., LTD. et al v. TEVA PHARMACEUTICALS USA, INC. et al
njdce
2:2005cv05727
12/7/2005
Eli Zeevi v. Denso International America Inc et al
cacdce
2:2004cv03976
12/29/2005
Eon-Net LP v. drugstore.com inc
wawdce
2:2005cv02114
12/22/2005
Epicenter Inc v. Aten Technology Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08767
12/15/2005
Erico International Corporation v. Vutec Corporation et al
ohndce
1:2005cv02924
12/19/2005
Error Not Corporation v. Adams et al
utdce
1:2005cv00160
12/21/2005
EVERETT LABORATORIES, INC. v. VERTICAL PHARMACUETICALS, INC. et al
njdce
2:2005cv05926
12/23/2005
Felix v. American Honda Motor Co., Inc
ksdce
2:2005cv02525
12/13/2005
Ford Motor Company v. Paice, L. L. C.
miedce
2:2005cv74904
12/28/2005
Genprod v. Earle Industries Inc et al
aredce
3:2005cv00281
12/12/2005
GERARD vs. ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT
flsdc
1:2005cv23247
12/15/2005
Great Neck Saw Manufacturers Inc v. Star Asia USA LLC et al
wawdce
2:2005cv02097
12/19/2005
Haemonetics Corp. v. Baxter Healthcare Corp. et al
madce
1:2005cv12572
12/22/2005
Halliburton Services v. Smith International
txedce
4:2002cv00269
12/16/2005
Heiber Patent Licensing Corp. v. TPLUS, LP
flmdce
6:2005cv01893
12/22/2005
Hilex Poly Co LLC v. Omega Plastics Corporation et al
scdce
4:2005cv03542
12/20/2005
Honeywell International Inc. et al v. Citizen Watch Co Ltd et al
dedce
1:2005cv00874
12/16/2005
HOWARD JOHNSON INTERNATIONAL, INC. v. SHUKLA HOSPITALITY, LLC et al
njdce
2:2005cv05896
12/21/2005
HWB, Inc. et al v. Metalpro Industries, L.L.C. et al
laedce
2:2005cv06665
12/21/2005
Ice House America, LLC v. Redico, Inc. et al
flmdce
3:2005cv01294
12/20/2005
Idaho Technology et al v. Cepheid
utdce
2:2005cv01063
12/22/2005
Ideal Instruments, Inc. v. Rivard Instruments, Inc. et al
iandce
3:2005cv03079
12/30/2005
IGT vs. BALLY GAMING INC.
txwdc
1:2005cv01064
12/22/2005
Incentive Solutions, Inc. et al v. Meridian Enterprises Corporation
gandce
1:2005cv03235
12/21/2005
Infineum International LTD et al v. Afton Chemical Corp.
dedce
1:2005cv00884
12/22/2005
Ingenious Designs, LLC v. QVC, Inc. et al
nyedce
2:2005cv05691
12/7/2005
Inline Connection Corporation v. Verizon California Inc. et al
dedce
1:2005cv00866
12/14/2005
INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS WORLDWIDE, INC. v. MIKOHN GAMING CORP. et al
njdce
1:2005cv05964
12/14/2005
International Manufacturing and Engineering Services Company, Ltd. v. Eastman Kodak Company
nysdce
1:2005cv10797
12/23/2005
Internetad Systems LLC v. Midwest Airlines Inc et al
txndce
3:2005cv02532
12/30/2005
Intervet Inc. v. Merial Limited
dedce
1:2005cv00887
12/23/2005
Jams Turbo, Inc. v. Francis Argy et al
nywdce
1:2005cv00884
12/20/2005
Kapusta v. Gale Corporation
caedce
2:2003cv01232
12/9/2005
Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. v. Media Factory Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08447
12/1/2005
Koninklijke Philips Electronics NV et al v. Media Factory Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08706
12/14/2005
Koninklijke Philips Electronics NV et al v. Newport Technologies Group Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08787
12/16/2005
Marsh v. Mobilarm et al
mddce
1:2005cv03405
12/21/2005
MATSUSHITA ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL C vs. SILICONIX INCORPORATED
wiwdc
3:2005cv00732
12/15/2005
Merial Limited v. Intervet, Inc.
gandce
1:2005cv03168
12/15/2005
Minks v. Polaris Industries, Inc.
flmdce
6:2005cv01894
12/22/2005
MIZ Engineering, LTD. v. Avganim et al
vaedce
2:2005cv00722
12/8/2005
Mobile Micromedia Solutions LLC v. Nissan North America Inc
txedce
5:2005cv00230
12/28/2005
Monsanto Company v. AGMAX, LLC
ilsdce
4:2005cv04223
12/23/2005
Muller v. Save the World Air Inc. et al
nysdce
1:2005cv10651
12/20/2005
NeilMed Products Inc. et al v. B.F. Ascher & Company
candce
3:2005cv05083
12/8/2005
Nystrom v. Trex Company, Inc., et al
vaedce
2:2001cv00905
12/22/2005
ORTHO-MCNEIL PHARMACEUTICAL, INC., v. COBALT PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.
njdce
3:2005cv05920
12/22/2005
Padcom Inc. v. Netmotion Wireless Inc.
dedce
1:2005cv00889
12/27/2005
Pall Corporation v. Entegris, Inc.
nyedce
2:2005cv05894
12/16/2005
Papst Licensing GmbH & Co. KG v. Cornice, Inc. et al
laedce
2:2005cv06338
12/15/2005
PEARLE VISION, INC. v. MILESTONE OPTICAL, INC. et al
njdce
2:2005cv05930
12/22/2005
Pick & Pay Hyper Inc v. Sunrise Trading Co
lawdce
6:2005cv02222
12/27/2005
Pieczenik v. TIAA-Cref et al
nysdce
1:2005cv02193
12/19/2005
Plantronics, Inc. v. Target Corporation
candce
3:2005cv05232
12/19/2005
PlaSmart Inc. v. Wincell International Inc. et al
nysdce
1:2005cv10745
12/23/2005
Positec USA Inc. et al v. Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
dedce
1:2005cv00890
12/27/2005
Power Tool Specialists, Inc. v. Black & Decker, Inc. et al
madce
3:2005cv30287
12/29/2005
Probatter Sports, LLC v. Sports Tutor, Inc
ctdce
3:2005cv01975
12/28/2005
Pro-Ject Chemicals Inc et al v. The Treat-Em-Rite Corporation
txsdce
4:2005cv04170
12/12/2005
Quantum Technology Management Limited v. Apple Computer Company, Inc. et al
mddce
1:2005cv03408
12/21/2005
Quinn v. Microsoft Corporation
vawdce
7:2005cv00757
12/13/2005
Rates Technology Inc. v. Uniden America Corporation et al
nyedce
2:2005cv05982
12/22/2005
Raymond Caluori v. Robert Bosch GmbH et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08681
12/13/2005
REMINGTON ARMS COMPANY, INC. v. JAMISON
ncmdce
1:2005cv01129
12/20/2005
Saffran, M.D., Ph.D., v. Boston Scientific Corporation
txedce
2:2005cv00547
12/16/2005
Samsung SDI Co Ltd v. Matsushita Electronics Industrial Co Ltd et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08493
12/5/2005
Sawgrass Technologies Inc v. Texas Original Graphics Inc et al
txndce
3:2005cv02449
12/14/2005
Seberger v. Troy Industries, Inc.
madce
3:2005cv30271
12/9/2005
Seed Research Equipment Solutions, LLC v. Gary W. Clem, Inc.
ksdce
6:2005cv01378
12/30/2005
Seychelles Imports LLC v. Juicy Couture Inc
cacdce
2:2005cv08552
12/7/2005
Shen Wei (USA) Inc. et al v. Cardinal Health, Inc.
ilndce
1:2005cv06002
12/12/2005
Smartcall Licensing Incorporated v. Cellco Partnership
ilndce
1:2005cv07160
12/21/2005
Soff-Cut International Inc v. National Diamond Corporation et al
cacdce
5:2005cv00370
12/12/2005
Solcum Enterprises Inc. et al v. New Generation Devices
candce
3:2005cv04982
12/2/2005
Steelhead Corporation v. United Enertech Corporation
ilndce
1:2005cv07157
12/21/2005
Summers v. Concrete Impressions of Florida, Inc. et al
flmdce
8:2005cv02307
12/16/2005
Syngenta Seeds Inc. v. Monsanto Company, et al
dedce
1:2002cv01331
12/14/2005
T SYSTEMS vs. CHAPIN WATERMATICS
casdc
3:2005cv02300
12/16/2005
Taylor Made Group, Inc. et al v. Viralex 2000 Inc. et al
nyndce
6:2005cv01571
12/16/2005
Tele Atlas North America Inc. v. Gebre
candce
3:2005cv05246
12/19/2005
Thales Airborne Systems S.A. et al v. Universal Avionics Systems Corporation
dedce
1:2005cv00853
12/12/2005
Undercover, Inc. et al v. Rugged Liner, Inc.
moedce
4:2005cv02329
12/14/2005
UNIVERSAL AVIONICS SYSTEMS CORP. v. THALES S.A.
njdce
2:2005cv05764
12/12/2005
VIRBAC CORPORATION v. CHANELLE PHARMACEUTICALS MANUFACTURING LTD. et al
njdce
2:2005cv05845
12/16/2005
Visto Corporation v. Microsoft Corporation
txedce
2:2005cv00546
12/14/2005
WALDWICK PLASTICS CORP. v. TONGDA JIANGSU AEROSOL COMPANY, LTD. et al
njdce
2:2005cv05939
12/27/2005
WALKER vs. JOHN RENAU
casdc
3:2005cv02253
12/5/2005
Wenger Corporation v. Smartstage Corporation et al
mndce
0:2005cv02943
12/20/2005
Wetzel v. Intergraph Corporation et al
candce
3:2005cv04980
12/2/2005
Willis Electric Company, Ltd. v. Toyo Electric Manufacturing Company, Ltd. et al
nysdce
1:2005cv10668
12/19/2005
Worldwide Integrated Resources Inc v. Rubbermaid Commercial Products et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08469
12/2/2005
Xikar, Inc v. Gargoyle Sales & Marketing Group, Inc.
mowdce
4:2005cv01254
12/16/2005
Xoft Microtube Inc. v. Cytyc Corporation et al
candce
3:2005cv05312
12/22/2005
Zyon Int'l Inc v. ACON Laboratories Inc et al
cacdce
2:2005cv08692
12/13/2005
J. Matthew Buchanan 
Stephen M. Nipper 
Douglas Sorocco 