Your company has developed a novel DSP-based image processing system. How would you protect your intellectual property?
             In this age where all aspects of our lives are enhanced in some way by innovation, the value of good ideas is becoming increasingly important. With the development of a novel Digital Signal Process based image system it is necessary to protect the ideas and innovations from being poached to ensure that it remains as a success. The reason being that business success depends more on creativity and innovation, on seizing opportunities to build knowledge and on recognizing the unique value of intellectual property
             Intellectual property is an invention, original design or practical application of an idea - in other words, it is the product of the mind or intellect. In business terms, this also means proprietary knowledge. Hence Intellectual property applies to a commercially valuable product of the human intellect, in a concrete or abstract form, such as a copyrightable work, a protectable trademark, a patentable invention, or a trade secret.
             Normally, in any country, Intellectual Property rights revolve around four areas -patents, copyright, trademarks and designs.
             With development of a novel product (DSP-based image processing system) regardless of it being a revolution or evolution, a patent to protect the functionality of the product is a legally enforceable right. This patent would give the company, the right for a limited period to stop others from making, using or selling the invention without the permission of the inventor. Patents are generally interested in functional and technical aspects of products and processes, and they must fulfill specific conditions to be granted. Typically, patent rights are territorial; meaning a UK patent does not give rights outside of the UK. Also patent rights last for up to 20 years in the UK.
             Copyright is another essential to protect Intellectual Properties. The purpose ...