2 – Intelligent systems

Background

The company “Magic Textile” was formed by two post-docs (Dr. A. B. and Dr. L. R.) from a European university. It designs novel woven and knitted textiles including embedded processing, sensing and display electronics. It has close contacts with major companies in weaving technology, e.g. manufacturers of weaving looms. The original ideas were created while Dr. A. B and Dr. L. R. were at university and these inventions are owned by the University. Patent applications were filed by the University, but due to intense research activity in this technical field it is questionable whether the patents will get granted due to close prior art, or if they do, whether claims with broad scope will be obtained.

The problem

Magic Textile does not own the basic patents on its technology. As a licensee of the University they do not feel that they have the control required over the intellectual property. Fearing that they may finally not get the patents granted, they do not want to lose control of their ides. They are not in the financial position to purchase the weaving looms and other equipment needed to produce the products. So they have to work through custom weavers and knitters who thereby gain knowledge. In addition they have little marketing experience and they lack the relationships with distributors that might be necessary to market the product in other countries on their own.

Hence, they have been looking for partners. But they have found that potential partners are interested only if Magic Textiles could demonstrate that the products were protected by patents.

Dr. A. B. and Dr. L. R. are frustrated. They believe that by amalgamating two very different technologies – electronics and textiles – they have produced unique products with a great potential. They believe their combined knowledge is a great asset and in addition they notice that the feedback from their partners and clients adds to this knowledge resource and helps them with the next problem to solve and new projects.

The challenge

• How can Magic Textiles understand its present limitations and future opportunities?
• How can they get a better grip on their intellectual property?
• How should they deal with the custom manufacturers they need to use to make the products?
• How should they set up an agreement with a potential partner?
• How can they protect their technical knowledge better?

The solution

If these are the kind of problems that you have, please contact BIRD GOËN by email (ipadmin@birdgoen.com) and refer to “case study 2” to arrange for consultation.