Understanding a Technology Transfer
The transfer of technology, inventions, knowledge, scientific outcomes, and intellectual property rights from one individual, company, or government to another plays a significant role in economic development and growth across the world. Technology transfer has made the development of new products, services, processes, and ideas possible. However, not everyone understands the process of technology transfer as well as they should. This kind of knowledge is critical in order to protect intellectual property and achieve a smooth transfer.
At Ream Law Firm, L.L.C., Attorney Dale J. Ream is dedicated to offering reliable advocacy and personalized guidance to clients in intellectual property-related matters, including technology transfer. As an experienced Kansas City intellectual property attorney, he’s ready to help you understand the technology transfer process and help you navigate crucial decisions. The firm proudly serves clients across Kansas City, Missouri, and throughout the KC metro area, including Johnson County, Kansas, and Jackson County, Missouri.
What Is a Technology Transfer?
Technology transfer can be described as the process of transferring a piece of technology, idea, knowledge, procedure, invention, or scientific outcome from one party or entity to another. Essentially, technology transfer may occur between individuals, companies, universities, industries, and governments.
Reasons for Technology Transfers
Technology transfer can occur due to a wide variety of reasons, including the desire to:
Share skills, technologies, knowledge, procedures, and manufacturing methods.
Develop new products, services, processes, and ideas for public benefit.
Boost the economy of underdeveloped nations.
Provide solutions to various problems.
Generate profit, which may be used for funding further research.
In addition, the transfer of new technology has helped ensure that both technological and scientific innovations and developments are available to the general public as well as those who can help further develop or transform them.
Types of Technology Transfers
International Intellectual Property Technology Transfers
International intellectual property technology transfer is a form of technology transfer between a country and another country. For example, a developed country could transfer a technology or innovation or the means to develop it to another country. Such international technology transfers can bring about new developments and help improve the economies of underdeveloped nations.
Private Intellectual Property Technology Transfers
Private intellectual property technology transfer occurs when an established organization transfers the intellectual property rights of a technology or product to a smaller organization. Such technology transfers usually occur in the aftermath of the partnership between the companies involved. It may involve the transfer of tangible products, processes, or experienced personnel.
The Transferring Process
Although every case is different, here are the various stages involved in a typical technology transfer:
Invention: This involves developing a new technology or process. The invention is usually in raw form and may require further development in order to become a useful product.
Invention Disclosure: This involves taking formal steps to disclose the new invention to the CDC’s Technology Transfer Office (TTO). The owner of the invention (the inventor or researcher) must complete the Disclosure of Invention Form to ensure proper documentation.
Assessment: The TTO will assess the invention disclosure to determine whether it can be patented and the best mode for IP protection. Also, the TTO will evaluate the commercial value of the invention.
Protection or Patent Application: In addition, you may need to file a provisional patent application to protect the invention. A dedicated patent attorney can help submit your patent application.
Marketing: After filing a patent application, you can market the technology or invention using crucial details discovered in the assessment stage. Marketing the technology can help attract licensing opportunities.
Licensing: A company interested in the technology will secure rights to the invention through a license. This is a formal agreement between the owner and the company. Upon obtaining the license, the company will be able to use, produce, or sell the technology.
Distribute Revenue: Depending on the commercial performance of the technology, the company will share a portion of the revenue and royalties with the inventor based on the terms of the licensing agreement.
An experienced attorney can walk you through all the procedures involved and help ensure a seamless transfer of technology.
Technology Transfer Compliance: Your Legal Roadmap
Having reliable guidance during technology transfer is crucial to protect your IP rights and inventions. Attorney Dale J. Ream guides Kansas City clients through the complicated procedures involved in technology transfers. As your attorney, Dale can help complete the invention disclosure form, submit your patent application, and market the technology. In addition, Attorney Ream will help negotiate a reasonable licensing agreement and help you move forward with confidence.
No matter where you live in the Kansas City area—including Johnson County, Kansas, and Jackson County, Missouri—Contact Ream Law Firm, L.L.C., today to schedule an initial consultation.