Effective Defence of EPO Patent Applications

Clarity in drafting patent claims has always been a serious issue: clarity is required to distinguish the subject matter of a claim from prior art, and an unclear claim can be interpreted to the disadvantage of the applicant or proprietor. This is not just a formal matter, but a substantial issue of first importance.

The ‘problem-solution’ approach is not officially part of the EPC but is a criterion which has been developed by case law. It is now hard to find a decision of the Boards of Appeal which does not rely on the problem-solution approach to decide upon inventive step. It looks easy, but when applied, it should be applied correctly.

The expert trainer will teach delegates the essentials of clarity and the most effective use of the problem-solution approach, giving them an edge over other parties. The use of practical exercises will help embed the learning. 

There is also time allowed during the event for you to ask your specific questions to the trainer and get solutions to the challenges you are facing.

Key topics covered:

• Article 84 – the implications of clarity of claims
• Effective use of the problem-solution approach
• Article 56 – understanding inventive step