Intellectual Property Presentation: Inventive Step in the EPO: The Problem and Solution Approach
6/1/2005
In this paper, Julian Crump, Member in the Intellectual Property Section and Head of the firm's Chemistry and Life Sciences Group in the London office, will examine what the "problem and solution" approach is and how, and why, it is used with such affection by the EPO.
Julian's practice is focused primarily on pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, bioinformatics, chemistry, and food technology, but he has also gained substantial knowledge of product handling equipment, and aircraft seating systems. He has extensive experience in proceedings before the European Patent Office, with the conduct and representation of clients at oral proceedings before the Examining and Opposition Divisions, and before the Boards of Appeal, being a particular strength. He won the tender to prosecute GlaxoSmithKline's human genomics European patent applications, securing the allowance of important bioinformatics cases in that representation, and advised on and managed the transition of Molins PLC's patent portfolio upon closure of its in-house patent department. He counselled Virgin Atlantic Airways on the intellectual property issues surrounding the launch of two new business class passenger seating products, and advises universities, NHS hospital trusts, and spin-out companies on the protection of their inventions.
