#Japan #Tokyo #patent strategy #JPI #Hiroshi Kato

Seminar on Use Invention and Limited Use Invention

On June 26, 2026, the Japan Planning Institute (JPI) will host an insightful seminar titled "Use Invention and Limited Use Invention: Understanding Patent Strategies and Practices through Case Law". This event is set to feature Professor Hiroshi Kato from Nihon University Graduate School, a leading authority in intellectual property law with over 30 years of experience.

Seminar Overview:

The focus of the seminar will be on the importance of inventions related to specific applications, particularly in fields such as pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics. The term 'use invention' refers to inventions that arise from the particular applications of products, while 'limited use invention' pertains to broader applications, including machinery and devices.

As companies strive to commercialize their research outcomes, building a robust patent strategy becomes essential. This seminar is tailored for professionals in intellectual property departments, patent application personnel, and those involved in patent strategic planning in the research and development sectors.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• - Understand the points of consideration for judging the inventive step of use inventions and limited use inventions based on case law.
• - Learn how to design claims and construct specifications with an eye towards potential rejection communications.
• - Gain insights into building patent portfolios and strategic planning for commercialization.

Target Audience:

• - IP departments and patent application staff in corporations.
• - Those involved in patent strategy within research and development sectors.
• - Legal and IP professionals in pharmaceutical, chemical, and materials manufacturing companies.
• - Young patent attorneys and technicians working in patent firms.

Detailed Agenda:

1. Overview of Use Invention and Limited Use Invention

• - Definitions and roles of use and limited use inventions.
• - Current trends in patenting.

2. Patent Practice for Use Inventions

• - Determining novelty and inventive step for use inventions.
• - Proper description methodologies for use claims.
• - Strategies for responding to patent examinations and rejections.
• - Constructing a patent portfolio.

3. Patent Practice for Limited Use Inventions

• - Assessing novelty and inventive step for limited use inventions.
• - Best practices for writing limited use claims.
• - Navigating patent examinations and rejections.
• - Portfolio developments for limited use inventions.

4. Utilizing Use and Limited Use Patents

• - Scope of effectiveness for use and limited use patents.
• - Understanding direct and indirect infringement.
• - Commercialization case studies of use patents.
• - Links between business activities and patent applications.

5. Case Law in Use and Limited Use Patents

• - Key cases from the Intellectual Property High Court, including notable judgments.
• - Discussion on implications of case law on patent practices.

6. Strategies for Use and Limited Use Patent Innovations

• - Formulating effective patent strategies for use inventions.
• - Analyzing registered patent examination histories.
• - Comparative studies of patent claims from international jurisdictions.
• - Recommendations for optimized specifications and claims based on examples.

7. Q&A Session

Engage in direct dialogues with the speaker, fostering interaction that bridges industry boundaries.

Format and Registration:

• - Participants can join either in-person or via live streaming, with an option for on-demand access following the seminar.
• - Registration fees are guided by participant numbers and affiliation, with discounts available for local government employees.

This program not only provides theoretical knowledge but also invaluable networking opportunities, making it a unique event for professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of patent strategies.

For further information and registration, visit JPI Seminar Registration.