Slide 1

Intellectual Property Rights in the US

Speaker Notes In this presentation, we will explore the world of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in the United States. We will discuss three main types of IPR: patents, copyrights, and trademarks. We will learn how these rights protect inventions, creative works, and brand identities.

Slide 2

What is a Patent?

• A patent is a government-granted monopoly that protects an invention.
• It gives the inventor the exclusive right to make, use, sell, or import the invention for a set period.
• Example: Thomas Edison’s light bulb patent (US Patent 223,898)

Speaker Notes A patent protects new and useful inventions that are not obvious. The light bulb is a classic example of a patented invention. Thomas Edison’s patent on the light bulb helped him establish the Edison Illuminating Company, the first commercial electric power company.

Slide 3

How Long Does a Patent Last?

• In the United States, a utility patent grants the inventor exclusive rights for 20 years from the filing date.
• Design patents, which protect the ornamental design of an article, last for 14 years from the date of grant.

Speaker Notes The length of patent protection is not indefinite. There is a balance to be struck between rewarding inventors with exclusive rights and allowing the public to benefit from innovation after a set period.

Slide 4

What is a Copyright?

• A copyright protects original works of authorship.
• These can include literary works, musical works, artistic works, cinematographic works, and sound recordings.
• Copyright protects the expression of an idea, not the idea itself.

Speaker Notes Copyright protects a wide range of creative works, from books and songs to paintings and movies. Copyright ensures that creators are compensated for their work and encourages them to continue creating.

Slide 5

Example of Copyright

• Mickey Mouse is a famous example of a copyrighted character.
• The Walt Disney Company has successfully protected its copyright in Mickey Mouse for over 90 years.

Speaker Notes Copyrights are important for creative industries such as music, film, and publishing. Copyright protection allows creators to control how their works are used and distributed.

Slide 6

What is a Trademark?

• A trademark is a word, symbol, design, or phrase that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods or services.
• Trademarks help consumers identify the products and services they want and prevent confusion in the marketplace.
• Example: The Coca-Cola bottle is a registered trademark.

Speaker Notes Trademarks are essential for brand recognition and marketing. A strong trademark can help a company build brand loyalty and customer trust.

Slide 7

How to Get a Trademark

• In the United States, trademarks are registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• The registration process can be complex, and it is advisable to consult with an attorney specializing in trademark law.

Speaker Notes Unlike patents and copyrights, which arise automatically upon creation, trademarks must be registered to receive full legal protection.

Slide 8

Protecting a Trademark

• Trademark owners must take steps to protect their marks from infringement.
• This may involve enforcing their rights through litigation or other legal means.

Speaker Notes Trademark owners have a responsibility to protect