Pieces of the Patent Puzzle: A Primer

This presentation will begin with the basics of intellectual property such as patents, designs, trademarks, and copyright, with a discussion of the differences between each type of property. The focus of the presentation will turn to patents, starting from the origins of the law, including how to obtain patent protection, and how to use a patent. Additionally, the presentation will discuss those aspects of patent law (such as work-for-hire and assignments) that are relevant to the scientists, physicists, and students in the audience. Moreover, to prevent the audience from entering into a stupefied state, the discussion will be physically infused with pithy examples and anecdotes that assist us in putting together the pieces of the puzzle.