Since the Supreme Court issued its 2014 opinions in Mayo and Alice, patentability has been a moving target – and technology transfer offices have struggled to obtain patent protection in certain areas, including computer-implemented and diagnostic technologies.
With so little clarity, evaluating IP in these areas and making commercialization decisions has been more of a guessing game than a reliable process. However, on January 4, 2019, the USPTO published updated examination guidance regarding the subject matter eligibility of technologies involving abstract ideas.
This new guidance marks a course correction for how patents — and particularly software patents — are examined.
Technology Transfer Tactics’ Distance Learning Division is teaming up with IP attorney Tyson Benson, Associate with Harness, Dickey and Pierce, PLC, to guide attendees in what adjustments should be made to your IP evaluations in light of the new 101 guidance, and how to best prepare your applications for maximum patent protection.
Mr. Benson will:
- Provide an in-depth analysis of the updated examination guidance
- Demonstrate how technology transfer offices should evaluate their invention disclosures in light of the updated examination guidance
- Reveal how the examiners and tribunals are handling patent applications based on the updated examination guidance
Meet Your Program Leader:
Tyson Benson
Associate
Harness, Dickey & Pierce, PLC
Tyson’s current practice is focused on providing patent protection and portfolio management strategies for his clients’ most important technologies. He is also regularly involved in securing trademark protection, negotiating profitable licensing agreements, providing litigation support and conducting freedom to operate analyses.
Tyson takes pride in serving clients that range from start-ups to universities to Fortune 500 companies. As a patent attorney who began his career as a computer engineer, he understands the importance of innovation and has the technical expertise to serve clients from virtually any industry. He is highly regarded for being an enthusiastic advocate for his clients’ work and for safeguarding their assets through the approvals process and onto the open market. Tyson is a frequent speaker and webinar guest on topics that include patent prosecution, legal updates, and intellectual property.
