Software as "machine DNA": arguments for patenting useful computer disks per se
Article Abstract:
Computer programs stored on disk should only be patentable per se when an examination of the content reveals that it meets the usefulness requirement. Software companies are arguing in In re Beauregard and other cases that software programs on disk meet the statutory requirements for patentability much the way DNA sequences do. Patent officials are reluctant to extend protection to software based on this theory because the theory would arguably make music CDs patentable. The usefulness requirement can be used to distinguish artistic works from programs on disk that deserve patent protection.
Publication Name: Journal of the Patent and Trademark Office Society
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0882-9098
Year: 1995
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Computer software "article of manufacture" patents
Article Abstract:
Decisions in 1994 by the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit as well as policy statements by the US Patent Office have indicated that programs stored on computer storage medium can qualify for article of manufacture patents. Analysis of five Federal Circuit decisions shows that the court would be willing to accept the two-step protocol that has been developed for computer software patents. The Patent Office's guidelines have demonstrated acceptance for this approach, and the Office believes that computer programs are articles of manufacture.
Publication Name: Journal of the Patent and Trademark Office Society
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0882-9098
Year: 1995
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Reengineering the patent examination process: two suggestions
Article Abstract:
The author contends that the US Patent and Trademark Office could improve its patent examination process by conducting examinations as administrative trials and by creating a convertible low end patent which would be subject to limited examination.
Publication Name: Journal of the Patent and Trademark Office Society
Subject: Law
ISSN: 0882-9098
Year: 1999
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