How broad is your patent claim?

Article Abstract:

The literal wording in a patent claim can be interpreted to have a scope that is considerably narrower than it appears to contain. This is shown in a patent infringement lawsuit by an engineer named Fromsom against a company. The suit involved a proprietary aluminum anodizing process developed by Fromsom. Patent law recognizes the scope of a patent on the basis of the claims made rather than the specifications. It does not require that the claims recite all of their operating parameters. The courts used Fromsom's letters to the Patent and Trademark Office and the testimony of expert witnesses to establish the operating parameters of his patent, the basis of which was used to narrow the scope of his broadest claim. As a result, a verdict of non-infringement was declared.

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

CAPTCHA


Communicate risk effectively

Article Abstract:

Adverse public perceptions rather than technical challenges are more likely to delay, substantially increase the costs of, or derail, major projects in the chemical process industries, especially environmental projects and those with a potential environmental impact. Many such projects that have failed involved competent engineers and scientists with inadequate skills or misguided strategies for dealing with the public. A number of guidelines are suggested to help technical professionals overcome three primary errors in attempting to gain community consensus for risk-based decisions.

Author: Lester, Mel
Public affairs

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

CAPTCHA


Can you trust your aqueous system simulations?

Article Abstract:

The more efficient use of water and compliance with pollution control regulations are some of the continuing challenges confronting chemical process industry companies. However, the chemical engineering profession appears to be inadequately equipped to furnish the necessary expertise to develop and design improved, innovative strategies for the processing of aqueous systems. Yet skill and expertise in understanding and characterizing aqueous systems can clearly play a role in the successful achievement of efficient water use and environmental regulation compliance.

Author: Linkson, Peter B.
Production management

User Contributions:

Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:

CAPTCHA


Subjects list: United States
This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.