Robot patent! Why startups should pay attention

Recently, one of the most popular fields in the tech startup ecosystem is definitely “robotics (Robotics).” In the meantime, 4th Industrial Revolution technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), cloud, and big data have advanced dramatically, and robot technology is also growing explosively. In particular, AI technology is being installed in robots, opening up the possibility of being applied to a wide range of applications, from automating tasks that are difficult for humans to handle to the medical, service, and logistics fields.

recessed OpenAI, Meta, Google Global big tech companies such as related to core AI technology The trend of not actively issuing patents or disclosing technologyIt is showing. Although some of their research papers and open source models have been made public, the real “core know-how” is a trend where they are thoroughly managed so that they cannot be easily accessed from outside.

What startups should pay attention to in this situation Robot patentThe question is what kind of impact it can have in the future. In this column, Fine Patent Law Firm will present a specific strategy on why 'robot patents' are important and how to actually prepare for them.

Why should we pay attention to the future robot market?

(1) Fusion of hardware and software: the 'robotics 2.0' era

Where in the past robots were mainly mechanical devices that replaced simple repetitive tasks, now AI-based robotsAs this became full-scale, it became possible to partially replace or supplement human vision, hearing, and judgment functions. AI embedded in robots combines various advanced technologies such as machine learning, deep learning, autonomous driving algorithms, and computer vision to create new value that was previously difficult to imagine.

(2) Global Big Tech's AI Secrecy

Big tech companies such as OpenAI, Meta, and Google Licensing policies for core AI modelsThere is a tendency to make it very complicated, or to keep it a trade secret without protecting it with a patent at all. Because of this, if it's a startup that wants to directly develop and apply AI elements in the robotics field, Technology imitation risket Possible legal disputesIt's a situation where you have to consider all of them.

(3) Preempting the upcoming “AI+robot” convergence era

As robots are combined with AI, the range that can be automated will expand, and it is predicted that it will have a huge impact on the entire industry. these The era of “AI+robot” convergenceCompanies that have secured their own robot technology through patents can gain an advantageous position in terms of market preemption effects and investment attraction.

Robot patents, why startups must pay attention

(1) A shield that protects competitive advantage

The R&D effort and time invested by a startup is invaluable. If robot technology is secured as a patent, Easily imitated by competitorsDo or Unauthorized useYou can hit an effective shield to prevent them from doing so. In particular, robot patents that combine hardware elements (sensors, components, design) and software elements (AI algorithms, control logic, etc.) Complex patent strategyIt is even more advantageous in that it can form a high barrier.

(2) Attracting investment and increasing corporate value

Venture capital (VC) or corporate venture capital (CVC) Patent portfolioIt is used as an important indicator for corporate valuation. This is because it is a factor that can simultaneously prove a startup's technical ingenuity and a barrier to market entry. In particular, if you have a “robot patent” that is attracting attention as future food, investors will evaluate the company's future growth potential much higher.

(3) The paradox of AI technology disclosure trends

As mentioned earlier, even if OpenAI, Meta, and Google reveal some of their technology, the actual core algorithms and data utilization methods are often still private. If a startup creates a new robot technology, The scope of patents that will not conflict with Big Tech's private technologyIt must be well designed, and at the same time, its unique know-how must be safely protected. Since this is only possible through a patent application, Strategy for patenting proprietary technologyThis is essential.

(4) Expanding overseas markets and maximizing licensing opportunities

The field of robotics itself Global industryThis is it. To expand overseas beyond the domestic market, by securing a local patent Technology licensingPromote it advantageously, or partnerships You can improve your bargaining power when signing. For example, if patents related to robot technology are recognized in multiple countries, when collaborating with large local companies or local partners Market dominanceYou will be able to quickly enlarge it.

How should I prepare for a robot patent application?

(1) Understanding complexity in the field of “AI+robot”

Since robot patents are a fusion of various technical fields such as machinery, electronics, communication, software, and AI, Experts in each fieldThe statement must be prepared in collaboration with Fine Patent Law Office collaborates with patent attorneys specializing in various fields such as robot hardware, software, AI, and sensor networks Optimized patent strategyI will present it.

(2) Advanced technology research and big tech trend analysis

To avoid patent invalidity or infringement disputes, differences from existing prior technology must be clearly revealed. Also, OpenAI, Meta, Google By closely understanding Big Tech's latest patent trends, research papers, and published technical data Possible collisionsIt must be minimized.

(3) Establishing a global application strategy

The AI and robot industries include the US, Europe, Japan, and China Major global marketsActive technology development and investment are being carried out in Therefore, if you are a startup, keep in mind entering overseas markets from the beginning PCT (International Patent Application) application, Individual applications from major countries etc. must be comprehensively examined.

(4) Combining open source use with trade secrets

Open source software (OSS) is often used in robot software development. However, by properly separating and managing the part that uses open source and the part of the company's own technology (trade secrecy or patenting) conflict of rightsCare must be taken to prevent this from happening. Patents are subject to disclosure, but trade secrets are kept private, Which areas will be secured with patents and which areas will be managed as trade secretsIt's important to set it strategically.

Robotic Patent Strategy Guide for Startups

1. Establishing a step-by-step R&D roadmap
   In the robot development process, it is necessary to decide at what point to proceed with the patent application. From the initial idea stage of R&D, keep in mind the possibility of patents in advance, and at each development stage, such as prototype and pilot testing Intellectual property strategyThe way to connect is effective.
2. Core technology selection and intensive application
   Patenting every idea takes too much time and money. thus A startup's core competitivenessIt is practical to first establish a strategy to protect it, and then gradually expand the portfolio to surrounding technologies.
3. Continuous monitoring and updates
   In the robotics and AI industry, technology evolves day by day, and the competitive landscape changes. If a new feature is added or there is a risk of conflict with a third-party patent, supplement the existing patent or apply for a new patent legal riskIt is necessary to minimize it. Through patent monitoring services, Fine Patent Law Office identifies competitor trends and supports the rapid development of attack and defense strategies when necessary.
4. Patent negotiation and dispute management
   In order to effectively utilize robot patents, negotiation strategies with third parties are also important. A startup's robot patent can be a “negotiation card” that leads to business partnerships, or it is a basis for defending against third party patent infringement if it is suspected. Management of these negotiations and disputes Early patent strategyIt largely depends on the completeness of the statement prepared at the time of application.

Robot patent service provided by Fine Patent Law Firm

• Collaboration with patent attorneys specialized in robotics and AI: Experts in multidisciplinary fields such as mechanics, electronics, software, AI, and communication as a team Tailored patent strategyPresenting
• Advanced technology research and trend analysis: Comprehensive analysis of big tech trends, academic research, and competitor patent data Eliminate risk factors in advance
• Specification upgrade & claim design: Composite technology Clear and extensive protectionWrite the highest level of statements in the industry that you can do
• Global application consulting: About major markets such as the US, Europe, and China PCT application and National Patent Strategy arrange
• Dispute Prevention & Legal Response: From prior advice to prevent disputes with competitors, to actual litigation Strong legal responseOne-stop support up to

Core competitiveness in the “AI+robot” era, preparing for robot patents

At a time when the robot industry is growing rapidly and AI secrecy of global big tech companies is being strengthened, A startup secures its own robot technology and protects it through patentsDoing is no longer a choice, but a 'must. ' This is not only a springboard for attracting investment and expanding business, but it is also a key indicator that measures the potential to lead the industrial ecosystem in the “AI+robot” convergence era.

Pine IP Together with patent attorneys with expertise in the fields of robotics and AI, we can safely protect your valuable ideas and technologies and build differentiated competitiveness Optimal patent consultingIt is provided. Now that the future possibilities and marketability of robot technology are growing more and more, it is time to proactively establish a patent strategy Leading the future industryDon't miss the chance to do it.

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