Patenting Nanotechnology: In Pursuit of a Proactive Approach
13 Pages Posted: 8 May 2009
Date Written: May 5, 2009
Abstract
Nanotechnology is the manipulation of matter at the atomic level, it has the potential for energy efficiency, Carbon Nanotubes that have enormous tensile strength and are much stronger and lighter than elements like steel, Nanomaterials that are used in different products to make stain resistant clothes, equipments for defence and many others. Emerging technologies like Nanotechnology are one of the most discussed technologies of the 21st century. The enormous potentials that it possesses have made it invaluable however the same like other new technologies is in danger of being left unexplored because of the predicaments that it has caused in patenting the technology. Patents form an essential part in providing protection to the inventor, however the same turns futile if it is not properly granted or the patents so granted are overlapping with others. The paper attempts to address the issues of lack of knowledge and expertise in the field of nanotechnology which act as possible roadblocks in examining patent applications for nanotech inventions. It has now been an accepted fact that the developments in science and technology are always steps ahead of laws framed for regulating the technologies as a result of which the developments in the absence of a well defined regulatory framework act as the Frankenstein monster having enormous potential for good as well as evil. In the light of this background, the paper addresses the need to adopt a proactive approach as regards patenting Nanotechnology so that it can be used for maximum benefit to all.
Keywords: Nanotechnology, USPTO, Class 977
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