Virtual patent marking, as the name suggests, is a way to showcase a U.S. patent (or a U.K. patent) associated with a particular product. This comes with a host of benefits, with one being that all details of the protected invention can be easily accessed by individuals and business entities alike.
In this article, we take a deeper look into how virtual patent marking can be used, while also identifying different groups of patent owners that could benefit from using virtual marking across their range of products.
How Virtual Patent Marking Can Be Used
In order to use virtual patent marking, two things need to be implemented. First, a web page must be created to include relevant information about the patent itself. This information should include a notice (or caveat), and a list of the relevant patents, each linked to their associated products (or vice versa).
The web page can also contain other useful details, such as the status of the patent or the priority date. One webpage can contain a list of different patents if needed, with a section dedicated to each. As long as the page contains the required snippets of information and is not hidden behind a paywall of any kind, then the first step is in place.
Of course, the next step is to add the marking to the product, or range of products. This may be as simple as printing the word ‘Patent’ alongside the aforementioned link. Most patent owners will try to ensure that this URL is as short as possible, which can help to save time (and space on the product(s)), and consequently reduce cost. It’s also worth mentioning that the word ‘Patent’ can also be abbreviated (to ‘Pat.’) when displayed physically.
The webpage must be kept continuously available, as well as up to date with any changes in the patents.
Who Should Use Virtual Patent Marking?
Put simply, anyone that has a U.K. patent or a U.S. patent, or manages one, can likely benefit from virtual marking. This can include any of the following groups of people:
- SMEs – Protect the intellectual property of the product range without extensive technical knowledge.
- IP Firms – Allows multiple patents to be managed simultaneously.
- Corporations – Save space on physical items that can be used in better ways.
- Academics – Provide easy access to product details to the general public.
Virtual marking makes it easy to update information about each patent. For example, if the status of the patent changes, there is no need for new physical markings on any of the products. Only the content on the web page itself will need updating to reflect the changes. This is just one of the main reasons that people opt for virtual patent marking over traditional alternatives.
That concludes this article on how you can use virtual patent marking to protect intellectual property. For anyone that has a patent, or is tasked with managing a patented product range, virtual marking is something that should be strongly considered. There is a range of benefits that can help to save time, money, and overall confusion.
Here at Terrifio, we have developed a comprehensive software, known as MarkrTM, that can streamline the entire virtual marking process. The software can help you to keep track of each patent, access useful statistics, and customize printable reports. Why not get in touch with our friendly team and book a demo today?
This post should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion on any specific facts or circumstances. The contents are intended for general informational purposes only, and you are urged to consult your patent professional on any specific questions you may have.
