Actuators are remotely operated mechanized devices used in a variety of applications, such as opening and closing valves. They are often operated hydraulically, which requires them to have their own valves. Maintaining the...more
Two weeks ago, the Supreme Court heard oral argument in Minerva Surgical Inc. v. Hologic, Inc. over the rather arcane issue of assignor estoppel. Stop - I can figuratively feel your eyes rolling after reading the phase...more
Recently, the Federal Circuit held that an ex-employee (of Cisco) who founded a competitor (Arista) can challenge their own assigned patent, finding that, after assignment, they are not the patent owner. The Court held that...more
When you think about protecting a business firm’s intellectual property (IP), usually you think about protecting it from infringement by external actors. But there also are internal threats — even mortal ones — to the...more
Hint: The standard employment agreement you have been using that includes an assignment of IP provision might not be sufficient. - In the United States, employers don’t own an employee’s or consultant’s inventions unless...more