In the last issue, we discussed patent marking basics and issues related to licensee marking. A recent district court summary judgment decision provides another reminder regarding licensee marking and whether marking product...more
In many instances, using a particular process results in an innovative consumer product. It only makes sense that patent claims covering these innovative products may use terms or phrases related to the process (e.g.,...more
The April 2018 issue of Sterne Kessler's The Goods on IP® discusses prosecuting consumer product claims that include “process” limitations, the doctrine of aesthetic functionality in design patents, and issues with licensee...more
After investing time and resources to obtain patent protection, consumer product companies should maximize their return through a well-executed patent marking plan. The details of an effective marking program must be...more
In order to make the most of a patent investment, consumer product companies must put competitors on notice of their patent rights. Specifically, a patentee who makes or sells a patented article must mark their articles or...more
The January 2018 issue of Sterne Kessler's The Goods on IP® discusses interesting patent marking considerations for consumer product companies, including a recent Federal Circuit case involving licensee marking. This issue...more
The October 2017 issue of Sterne Kessler's The Goods on IP® discusses using your utility patent portfolio to expand design protection, tips for aligning your consumer product European patent portfolio with U.S. best...more
The July 2017 issue of Sterne Kessler's The Goods on IP discusses thinking like an Examiner to move prosecution forward, the wide variety of consumer product companies using design patents to protect their valuable product...more
For consumer product companies, the Examiner interview has heightened importance and presents a unique opportunity for success. Because product lifespans are often brief and knockoffs find their way into the market quickly,...more
Intellectual property plays an important role in maintaining a competitive edge in rapidly evolving consumer product and consumer packaged goods markets. Consumers expect ongoing product improvements, and savvy companies...more