February 12 – Intellectual Property Hot Topics Engineers Need to Know [Metro Atlanta]

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Abstract:

Atlanta, Georgia (January 24, 2024)  –  Patenting something and automatically becoming rich and famous is a myth. There are many examples of famous people that are known for inventing something useful or creating amazing art: Thomas Edison, Stephen King, Elon Musk. The effort and skill behind the achievements is largely unknown. To protect their intellectual property, creators need to navigate the applicable legal framework that allows them to benefit from those creations. There are critical steps that must be taken to turn creative works into valuable intellectual property that generates income. Simply obtaining a patent does not guarantee that you will make money. The adage “Build a better mouse trap and the world will beat a path to your door” is simply not true.

Intellectual property (\”IP\”) includes patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets. Many successful companies, such as Coca-Cola, were founded on valuable IP, and IP has been a major contributor to the robustness of industrialized economies. Engineers and managers need to be aware of the different types of IP, their potential value, and their limitations.

Russell Dunlap, Esq., Partner, Taylor English Duma LLP will address the 6:00 PM, Monday, February 12th monthly dinner meeting of the Georgia Society of Professional Engineers at Piccadilly Cafeteria, Northlake. His presentation on An Overview of Intellectual Property and Important Issues that Engineers Need to Keep in Mind will discuss the different types of intellectual property, and which types of IP apply to the different categories of technology and creations. Russell will outline the basic steps of how to apply for and protect the IP and some hot topics that he is seeing in the current market. Currently registered Professional Engineers, those engineers aspiring to become PEs, and others engaged in engineering would benefit from the presentation. Members of the general public are also welcome to learn about technology, engineering, and public welfare. There is no charge for the meeting or presentation.

Russell Dunlap is a member of Taylor English’s Intellectual Property Department, where he assists in patent, trademark, and copyright preparation, prosecution, and litigation. Mr. Dunlap has drafted and prosecuted numerous patent applications in a wide range of technologies in the mechanical arts, including water infrastructure components, construction equipment, cosmetics, clothing and other textiles, architectural products, medical devices, corrugated cardboard products and packaging, venting and drying technology, equestrian and pet equipment, and many varieties of consumer goods. His expertise includes reviewing his clients’ products and processes to provide advice on best strategies for protecting their intellectual property through a combination of patentability and noninfringement searches, utility and/or design patents, trade secrets, copyrights, or trademarks. Mr. Dunlap also works hard to understand the realities behind these strategies, including product development timelines and costs, sales and licensing opportunities, and potential competitors’ responses. Prior to becoming an attorney, Mr. Dunlap worked as a mechanical engineer at a mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection commercial design firm designing plumbing and HVAC systems. Mr. Dunlap is also an active member of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, attending plant tours and educational sessions to keep up with manufacturing trends and technologies in Georgia.