Protecting design: Leveraging design for robust content and knowledge transfer into patents

Abstract

A key focus of this literature review is to assess whether the current practice for information transfer between design and patent agent is sufficient to result in the prosecution of patents that draw from the full design development process. The prevalence, purpose and growth of patenting is identified. The nature of design development with the production of many concepts prior to the commercialization of a single direction is reviewed. The building blocks of a patent and how the inventive content is assessed is also reviewed. Current methodology for exchanging information between design development and patent agent is considered. The authors recommend further study and consideration of the transfer of knowledge between designers and patent agents for the purpose of creating valuable patents and protecting design innovation efforts.