Webinar: Software and Computer Implemented Inventions

Overview

Join us for a specialised webinar focused on the role of intellectual property (IP) in protecting software and computer-implemented inventions, tailored for chemical engineers. As chemical engineering continues to integrate advanced software solutions and digital technologies, understanding how IP can safeguard these innovations is becoming increasingly important.

In this session, we will explore the various IP tools available, with a particular emphasis on how patents can protect software-driven technologies in the chemical engineering field. We’ll delve into the challenges unique to computer-implemented inventions (CII) in industrial and chemical engineering, providing insights into patenting strategies and how IP law can be leveraged to protect process simulations, data analysis tools, or process automation systems.

We will also address other useful IP rights in the toolbox such as copyright for software code and registered designs for protection of the aesthetics of physical products as well as Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs), a vital aspect for engineers developing software or systems with custom interfaces.

Whether you’re involved in process optimisation, automation, or simulation software development, this session will give you the knowledge to navigate IP protection effectively and ensure your technological innovations are fully safeguarded.

Speaker

Dr Jon Markham, Partner, Beck Greener LLP

Jonathan is a partner at Beck Greener in London. He joined Beck Greener in 2009, having previously trained and qualified in-house for Dyson. His background is in physics, with a Masters degree from Durham University and a PhD from the University of St Andrews.

Jonathan’s PhD research investigated novel materials and device structures for highly efficient solution processed organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) utilising novel dendritic structures comprising light emitting chromophores derived from phosphorescent cyclometallated Iridium compounds. His research had a particular focus on the green emitter Tris(2-phenylpyridine)iridium [Ir(ppy)3] and he was heavily involved in the development of what was, at the time, the world’s most efficient solution-processed OLED. He is an author on over 20 scientific publications and conference proceedings.

An experienced patent attorney, Jonathan enjoys working with different clients, from inventors and SMEs to multinationals. He is particularly interested in helping innovative and disruptive British technology firms to achieve their goals by harnessing their ingenuity and protecting their ideas. Jon’s experience encompasses a wide range of technologies, including mechanical devices, semiconductors, electronics, telecommunications, computing and software, as well as medical imaging, consumer goods and AI. He has particular experience in the field of industrial process plant control methodologies.

Jonathan contributes to the CIPA Guide to the Patents Acts, the standard reference text for UK patent attorneys, and presents a series of nationwide seminars on UK case law and practice to lawyers, patent examiners and other intellectual property professionals.

The material presented in this webinar has not been peer-reviewed. Any opinions are the presenter's own and do not necessarily represent those of IChemE. The information is given in good faith but without any liability on the part of IChemE.

This event is one of an entire series of webinars by Beck Greener, find out more.

Time

12:30–13:30 BST.

Software

The presentation will be delivered via Microsoft Teams. We recommend downloading the app from the Microsoft website, rather than using the web portal.