PATENTS
Combining invention with product strategy
When presented with different options, implementing a solution that is practical, economical and patentable can give your product a competitive edge in the market. Even when alternative solutions exists, a patented feature helps during sales to differentiate from competitors and hinders pricing from downward spiraling.
Patented solutions are also very well suited for premium packages in a product range.
Patent costs depend hugely on the strategy. For a startup hoping to exit by selling their patent rights, world-wide patent coverage helps raising the value.
For a company with existing products, market channels and customers, patenting in only a few key countries may be more than enough to stop competitors or customers from investing into solutions that may infringe on the patent. This is especially relevant for products that are integrated into customer's standard platforms. (See "bargaining chip strategy" and "core countries defense" in the linked document above)
Based on numbers from 2009, 6% of european (EPO) patents are contested, and 2% results in deletion of the patent. Litigation costs for a contested patent is listed to vary between €6000 and €50,000, and pharmaceutical patents make up the bulk of these numbers.
Based on these factors, going forwards with a mechanical patent in a select core region is relatively low in risk, and can provide considerable bargaining power during sales and contracts.
Joystick adjustment: Users have different hand sizes (±15mm) and preferences vary on what angle they feel is comfortable. Some users have a lot of say in the process when new equipment is installed, when cabin producers configure the chair functions.
NO336092B1 - JOYSTICK 3D ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM
A mechanism that allows free 3-axial (vertical and forwards/sideways tilt) adjustment, and held in place with a cam-operated friction lock.
A mechanism that provides heavy-duty mounting for 2 large monitors on each armrest, while allowing variable position with one simple movement.
Used for operator chairs that require large touchscreens close to the user, and especially when the user alternates between working focused on the monitor information and focusing on what is in front of the cabin.
EP3118509A1 - DUAL MONITOR MOUNT
NO339533B1 - SIT/STAND OPERATOR CHAIR
A mechanism for a sit/stand chair with full 90% world user adjustment of ergonomics, making it possible to compress mechanical structure, cable management and actuation into a slim frame
