Patents

In a world facing significant challenges, the importance of human creativity and innovation cannot be overstated. As highlighted by the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we need to find solutions to problems ranging from climate change and diminishing natural resources to widespread inequality and health crises. We need “to re-think how we live, work and… Read more »

Universities have always been sources of innovative ideas as they, provide the infrastructure and environment to encourage research and development. Increasingly, universities are promoting commercialisation of some of those ideas to encourage entrepreneurship and generate revenue.  Many universities have some form of Technology Transfer Office where innovators can seek advice about taking their innovation further… Read more »

We’re pleased to announce that AA Thornton IP LLP is shortlisted in three categories at the Managing IP Awards 2024. We also congratulate our partner Mike Jennings for his nomination as Patent Practitioner of the Year. Our firm is recognised for: UK Patent Disputes UK Trade Mark Disputes UK Patent Practitioner of the Year –… Read more »

The following article was first published on Space East’s website. Manufacturers routinely obtain patent protection for different aspects of familiar everyday products. Smartphone companies and carmakers, for example, might each file hundreds, if not thousands, of patent applications annually. However, patents are also used to protect innovations in much more specialist fields, including space travel…. Read more »

Mike Jennings of AA Thornton IP LLP has been recognised again as an IAM Strategy 300 ‘Global Leader’ for 2024. He is also recognised by IAM as one of The World’s Leading Patent Professionals.     The IAM Strategy 300 Global Leaders list includes the individuals they identify as the world’s leading IP experts, renowned for… Read more »

Capturing the attention of both legal experts and technology enthusiasts alike, the UK Supreme Court handed down its highly anticipated decision in the case of Thaler (Appellant) v Comptroller-General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (Respondent) on 20 December. In a unanimous decision, the UK Supreme Court dismissed Dr Thaler’s appeal which relates to two inventions… Read more »

In the recent case of Vodafone v IPCom [2023] EWCA Civ 113 the Court of Appeal ruled that it would not re-visit a costs order of nearly £1 million following the European Patent Office (“EPO”) subsequently revoking the patent which underpinned the original action. This case highlights the importance of parties to litigation (and their… Read more »

Good news for UK businesses, the UK Government has agreed a deal to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) with a well-negotiated exemption. The CPTPP is a free trade agreement between 11 countries, which reduces trade and investment barriers between members by eliminating tariffs and establishing common rules. The Agreement includes… Read more »

In a look at some of the latest patent filings in the automotive industry we highlight McLaren’s patent application to a powertrain using three electric motors, and application by Ford for a car that can drive itself away if the owner fails to keep up with repayments! McLaren – Patent Publication no. EP4112349 British supercar… Read more »

The EV revolution In a series of articles, senior associate Stuart Greenwood looks at the current state of electric vehicles, the very latest developments in the field, what lies ahead, and some examples from around the world at how cities and countries are adapting and preparing for the coming of the EV. Electric Avenue –… Read more »