A "Hands-on IPR and Patent Writing Workshop" was conducted on 03 December 2024 at Prof. P Gundu Rao Conference Hall, MCOPS, Manipal organized by Innovations, IPR, Entrepreneurship and International Engagements Vertical, MCOPS, MAHE, Manipal, Innovation and IPR Vertical, KMC, MAHE, Manipal and IPTTO-Directorate of Research, MAHE, Manipal.
Dr. Phani Kumar Pullela, Associate Dean, RV University, Bengaluru India was the Resource Person. The workshop aimed to equip attendees with the skills necessary to draft effective patent applications. The primary objective of the workshop was to provide participants with practical knowledge and skills in patent writing, enabling them to understand the intricacies of drafting patent applications effectively. Dr. Varadharajan, Coordinator-IPTTO delivered the opening remarks. Dr. Srinivas Mutalik, Principal, MCOPS and Dr. Usha Y Nayak, Vice Principal and Research Coordinator, MCOPS, Dr. Rachana Co-chair, Innovation & IPR Research Vertical, KMC, were present during the inaugural.
The workshop commenced with an overview of patents, their significance, and the legal framework governing them by Dr. Phani and his associate Dr. Pranav Bhat. Participants gained insights into the various types of patents and their role in protecting inventions. A crucial aspect of patent writing, participants delved into the anatomy of patent claims. Through case studies and examples, they learned how to formulate clear, concise, and comprehensive patent claims that define the scope of protection for their inventions. Practical sessions were conducted to guide participants through the process of drafting patent specifications. Emphasis was placed on accurately describing the invention, disclosing its novelty and inventive step, and complying with legal requirements. Participants were introduced to patent search techniques to assess the novelty and patentability of their inventions. They learned how to conduct thorough searches using online databases and tools to avoid infringement and identify prior art. Throughout the workshop, interactive exercises and group discussions were incorporated to reinforce learning and encourage collaboration among participants. Case studies and real-world examples were analysed to illustrate key concepts and challenges in patent writing. Legal considerations, such as patent eligibility criteria, disclosure requirements, and best practices in patent writing, were discussed in detail. Participants gained insights into strategies for maximizing the enforceability and commercial value of their patents.
About 70 participants from various institutes of MAHE, gained a deeper understanding of the patent writing process, including the importance of clear and precise language, and the significance of patent claims. Through hands-on exercises and practical guidance, participants developed essential skills in drafting patent specifications and conducting patent searches. The workshop provided a platform for participants to interact with peers, share experiences, and build professional networks within the intellectual property community. Dr. Virendra Ligade and Dr. Joseph Thomas chairpersons of MCOPS and KMC verticals co-ordinated the workshop.