Tagged Questions

12
votes
1answer
335 views

There's a troll in my space - now what?

I've spent the last 3 months full-time building an alpha version of a web app, and developing a business plan for it. The alpha version is ready to launch. Recently I've stumbled upon the fact that ...
1
vote
1answer
59 views

Once I apply for a patent, when can I start looking for manufacturers and engineers?

I have a (hardware) technology idea that several companies might be interested to compete with once created. Once I apply for a patent, can I proceed to scout for manufacturers, hire engineers, etc. ...
1
vote
3answers
138 views

How to publish a new technology without having patent?

I invented a new software based hardware technology which can solve many problems. I know getting a patent takes a very long time and is not an easy task. Do I have to apply and wait to get a patent ...
0
votes
1answer
39 views

Can be a new PIM method patented in European Union?

I have constructed a new personal information management system. It allows to organize personal matters in a new way. Can I file a patent to European Union? I live in Germany.
2
votes
2answers
572 views

How do I protect my idea before launching my web-service?

I have a unique idea about a web-service. How do I protect against duplicating my idea before launching? I'm afraid I'd end up rivaling against massive number of competitors like Groupon does now. I'm ...
1
vote
4answers
197 views

Can I patent something like this?

Assume there is no one doing type as you search. And I am the first one to do it, can I patent this application? If not, please explain. Thank you.
1
vote
3answers
204 views

Am I committing patent infringement if the function is the same but construction is different?

I know there are other products out there similar to the one my partner and I are working on. We are a new start up and want to be sure that we don't get into any trouble in the future by stepping on ...
3
votes
3answers
162 views

Avoiding patent litigation by only operating in Europe

Software patents are a hell hole in the US and we want to get out of it by operating (at least initially) in Europe. If a US company only operates in Europe (say this is a web app) would we still be ...
8
votes
2answers
404 views

How do I know if I am infringing on a technology patent?

I want to create an app for the Ipad which uses "videoconferencing" technology, very similar to what skype does. How do I know if that is patented? What happens if it IS patent protected and I use the ...
7
votes
2answers
449 views

Intellectual Property Suicide Pill

I'm planning a new software company that will license software to businesses. A lot of R&D will be needed to create the software and indeed, our codebase will be our biggest asset. Unfortunately ...
2
votes
3answers
194 views

How can I find out if a US company has a patent in the UK?

I am trying to set up a leisure centre in the Uk with an idea that is from the US. They have a US patent and say that they have a UK patent pending. 1.How can I find out if they do have a patent ...
10
votes
2answers
1k views

What happens when a UK company infringes a US patent?

I'm a one man startup with a high price, low volume, niche software product that I'm considering selling in the US. However, I'm concerned that it may infringe a US patent without me knowing because ...
3
votes
4answers
206 views

Is it hard to get into the hardware business?

In my head, I see the entry to the hardware business very difficult due to all the patents. Is this true or is it just me? Say I want to create a simple mobile phone with touch capabilities. What ...
4
votes
3answers
149 views

Patents for Content Management Systems

I'm currently developing a Content Management System designed to manage video media. I have taken a look online and seen that there have been (US) patents filed for content management systems in the ...
8
votes
4answers
1k views

To what extent are algorithms patentable, especially in the US and Europe?

I'd like to use an algorithm that has been published. It's not a must have for me, but would be convenient. The creator might be difficult to contact, but that's obviously not a reason to do the ...
2
votes
6answers
5k views

Is there a patent on Groupon.com?

I am thinking about starting a niche collective buying website in the US that is similar to Groupon.com Is Groupon patented? Is it legal to create a competitor website?
0
votes
2answers
325 views

Do Start-ups Need Cost Effective and Rapid Patent Services

My partner and I, after many years of researching and inventing, became patent agents and formed an LLC. Our business model is based on start-ups that need patents and trademarks but can't afford the ...