Research and analysis

Patent thickets

An investigation into a set of technology sectors for potential evidence and indicators of patent thickets.

• From: Intellectual Property Office
• Published: 25 November 2011

Documents

Patent thickets

PDF, 1.35 MB, 71 pages

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Details

A system defining different types of thickets according to technology maturity and sector is proposed; and the potential effects of these thickets on new market entrants (such as small and medium enterprises) in these technology sectors is considered.

In this report, a set of basic indicators identifying and ranking patent thickets is suggested, and some initial work in an automated thicket detection methodology is discussed.

Published 25 November 2011