Patent protection in the marine industry: international legal framework and strategic options

摘要

Legal protection of intellectual property is becoming increasingly important for developers of new technology, and the highly international marine industry faces some particular challenges in obtaining effective worldwide protection of innovation. Written for engineering professionals and managers in the marine industry, this paper takes a practical look at the international legal framework for patent protection of maritime inventions. A brief introduction to patents is first provided, summarizing important aspects of the patent system. The highly important exception from infringement for ships in international traffic is then reviewed and its practical implications discussed. Finally, some potential strategies for patent protection of maritime inventions in light of the current statutory framework and legal precedent are presented.