Depending on the technology disclosed, one or more of the following types of intellectual property rights can be protected and potentially licensed by the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Cell at SSSIHL:
Patent
A patent in India provides inventors with exclusive rights to their invention for a specified duration (typically 20 years) in exchange for publicly disclosing the invention. To qualify for patent protection, inventions must be novel, involve an inventive step (non-obviousness), and be capable of industrial application (usefulness).
Reference: Indian Patent Office – https://ipindia.gov.in/
Patent Filing Process for Affiliates of SSSIHL’s Innovation Council’s IPR Cell:
- Invention Disclosure: Submit a comprehensive description of the invention using the official online Invention Disclosure Form available through the SSSIHL IPR Cell portal.
- Preliminary Evaluation: The IPR Cell reviews the disclosed invention to assess preliminary eligibility criteria, including novelty, inventive step, and potential for industrial application.
- Prior Art Search: Conduct a detailed search for existing patents, publications, and related literature to ensure the invention meets the criteria of novelty and inventive step. The IPR Cell may assist or coordinate this search.
- Patent Application Drafting: Collaborate with a qualified patent attorney or expert recommended by the IPR Cell to draft the patent application. Ensure detailed claims, descriptions, diagrams, and illustrations clearly explain the invention.
- Filing the Patent Application: Submit the complete patent application along with all necessary forms, supporting documents, and the prescribed fees to the Indian Patent Office.
- Publication of Application: The application will typically be published by the Indian Patent Office after 18 months from the filing or priority date, making it publicly accessible.
- Request for Examination: File a request for examination within 48 months from the initial filing or priority date to begin the substantive examination process.
- Examination and Office Actions: Respond promptly to any examination reports or office actions issued by the Patent Office. Clarify objections, provide required information, and make necessary amendments within stipulated timelines.
- Patent Grant: Upon successful examination and resolution of all queries and objections, the patent is formally granted, registered, and officially published by the Indian Patent Office.
- Maintenance and Renewal: Ensure timely payment of renewal fees as prescribed by the Indian Patent Office to maintain patent protection for the entire term (usually up to 20 years)
For further information and assistance, contact the SSSIHL Innovation Council & IPR Cell: [email protected]