02017 Training catalogue

Boosting patenting skills Training catalogue 2017 European Patent Academy Foreword For 2017 the European Patent Academy has again got big plans. We are further extending our e-learning offering, and as usual we are taking on a number of new topics. Our training opportunities for national offices are aimed both at experienced patent examiners and at novices. After a two-year break we will again be running entry- level courses on “Clarity and unity” and on “Novelty and inventive step” (p. 17); and at the other end of the scale there will be an expert seminar on hot topics like 3D printing and the “Discussion platform for exchange on patenting practices” for specific technical fields (p. 21). We are setting a new tone for our training activities with two events based on the “IP pre-diagnosis” approach (pp. 24/25). There will be a completely new one-day event devoted to plant varieties that we are arranging together with the Community Plant Variety Office, which will also be open to staff from national offices (p. 23). Specifically for business advisors and intermediaries we have added new items to our programme, such as a conference on patenting in biotechnology (p. 40), though overall for this target group we have a strong focus on e-learning courses and easily accessible training materials. The popular “Praktika Intern” for patent attorneys will be held in The Hague this time around (p. 28). For judges we will again be offering seminars on various topics around patent litigation (p. 33). A series of workshops that we are calling “From idea to market” will provide researchers with an introduction to patenting issues (p. 36) – just one example of how we and the national offices support universities, research institutes and technology transfer centres in their IP activities. Browsing through this catalogue you are sure to discover many other attractive offerings for yourself too. Richard Flammer Principal Director Patent Information – European Patent Academy 3 Contents 5 Key EPO conferences 9 Target group: staff of national IP offices and related institutions 10 Events at a glance 12 E-learning 24/7 13 Patent information 14 Search and examination 22 IP management 22 Legal and procedural issues 24 IP office tools and techniques 27 Target group: professional representatives 31 Target group: judiciary 35 Target group: academia 39 Target group: business 43 Materials 51 E-learning 4  Key EPO conferences For updates, please check www.epo.org/learning-events 5 Key EPO conferences Search Matters Examination Matters Reference BC01-2017 Reference PC01-2017 30-31 March 2017 31 May-1 June 2017 Munich Munich Content Content – Inside the mind of an EPO examiner – How you can influence the speed of processing – Forward searching for your application – Latest developments in the Cooperative Patent – Product-by-process claims Classification (CPC) – Computer-implemented inventions in healthcare – Industry standards as prior art and life sciences – Efficient searching with situation-specific and – Admissibility – the examining division’s discretion adaptive search strategies – Inside the mind of an opposition division examiner – How to apply examiner search strategies on Espacenet – Efficient use of attorney resources – When to stop a search – Technical standards and substantive issues of patent – Related patent applications and patent thickets examination – Unity of invention – How to search the internet for relevant prior art Format without disclosing the invention – Presentations – Non-patent literature – Workshops – Notorious knowledge – Searching functional features – tools and tactics Learning objectives – Access to Asian documentation On completion of the conference participants will – Field-specific search (ICT, pharmacology, cosmetics, – understand how examiners approach patent mechanics, consumer technology, etc.) examination – have greater insight into general procedural aspects Format – have deeper knowledge of rare procedural – Lectures occurrences – Workshops – be up to date on the latest case law developments – “At the desk” sessions (exclusive one-to-one in specific areas meetings with examiners providing search expertise in defined technical fields/IPC codes, taking place a Requirements day before the main event) This event is intended for patent attorneys who are active in the prosecution of European patent Learning objectives applications before the EPO. On completion of the conference participants will – be familiar with EPO searching techniques, strategies and the Espacenet search tool – understand how EPO examiners approach patent filings through prior art searches – know how to critically reflect on their own search strategies – be able to improve their own searches – have an overview of major search challenges and trends Requirements Participants should have experience in the field of patent searching. A very good command of spoken and written English is required for all courses. 6  Key EPO conferences Boards of appeal and key decisions Reference OC02-2017 22-23 November 2017 Munich Content – Appeal procedure and the boards of appeal – Access to decisions and legal information from the boards – Recent developments in EPO case law: comments on selected decisions – Case law in specific fields of interest – Impact of board of appeal decisions on patent practice Format – Presentations by board members, with contributions from patent attorneys, judges and if applicable law professors – Mock trial before a board of appeal, followed by discussion – Full panel discussion Learning objectives On completion of the conference participants will be – familiar with the appeal procedure and how the boards of appeal function – aware of recent developments in EPO case law Requirements Participants should preferably have at least four years’ experience in the field of patents. This course is also suitable for PATLIB centre staff and staff of national offices in non-member states. For updates, please check www.epo.org/learning-events 7  Target group: staff of national IP offices and related institutions 9 Events at a glance February April IP pre-diagnosis – entry level (see page 24) 6-8 February Clarity and unity – entry level (see page 17) April-May Assessing clarity and unity in patent applications – 8-10 February Novelty and inventive step – intermediate level entry level Distance learning course (see page 17) (see page 18) February-April Drafting written opinions: practice at the EPO – entry level May Distance learning course (see page 16) 16-19 May How to understand and draft EPO search reports and written opinions – advanced level March (see page 16) 15-17 March Introduction to patent statistics 19 May Plant varieties and patents and PATSTAT on plants (see page 13) (see page 23) 20-22 March Clarity and unity – May-September Business use of patent information intermediate level Distance learning course (see page 19) (see page 14) 20-22 March Clarity and unity – advanced level (see page 19) June 22-24 March Novelty and inventive step – June-July Assessing novelty and inventive intermediate level step in patent applications – (see page 20) intermediate level Distance learning course 22-24 March Novelty and inventive step – (see page 18) advanced level (see page 20) July 21/24/ Patent searching 28/31 March (see page 13) 3-7 July IP Executive Week (see page 25) March-October EPOQUE Net: the art of efficient searching – advanced level Distance learning course September (see page 15) 11-15 September EPOQUE Net searches, including non-patent literature – April advanced level (see page 14)) 4-7 April The European patent system from filing to grant 26/29 September, Patent searching (see page 22) 3/6 October (see page 13) 10  Target group: staff of national IP offices and related institutions in member states September - EPOQUE Net: the art of efficient December searching – intermediate level Distance learning course (see page 15) October 10-12 October Examination practice in the fields of nanotechnology/3D printing/ use claims – expert level (see page 21) 17-19 October Efficient dialogue between patent examiners and patent attorneys/ applicants (see page 24) October Extended IP pre-diagnosis support (see page 25) November 7-9 November The EPO, an inside view: focus on (tbc) oppositions (see page 23) December 6 December IP for EU officials and policy makers (see page 22) No date yet Discussion platform for exchange on patenting procedures (see page 21) 11 E-learning 24/7 E-learning 24/7 Entry level Reference OD40-2017 Available 24/7 Self-paced distance learning courses Content Patentability requirements The e-learning offering also includes a variety of stand- This course explains the EPC’s patentability criteria, alone modules on selected topics such as: for both the invention and the patent application. In – Computer-implemented inventions particular, it demonstrates the concepts of novelty, https://e-courses.epo.org/course/view. inventive step, clarity and non-unity with practical php?id=276#section-1 examples. – Biotechnology https://e-courses.epo.org/course/view.php?id=299 https://e-courses.epo.org/course/view. php?id=276#section-2 Using the CPC in classification – Recordings of past editions of the EPO boards of This course offers an overview of the CPC classification appeal conference system, from the basics to the CPC definition https://e-courses.epo.org/course/view.php?id=266 documents. https://e-courses.epo.org/course/view.php?id=247 Requirements The courses are all free of charge, and you can register Practical and strategic aspects of the CPC individually without any access code. All you need is a Building on the content of the previous course, this valid e-mail account. second course provides an overview of the differences from the IPC and looks at useful strategies with practical examples. https://e-courses.epo.org/course/view.php?id=318 Searching prior art based on patent applications This course offers a practical guide to systematic patent search, from the process of analysing the patent application to carrying out a sufficiently complete and efficient search and deciding when to stop the search. https://e-courses.epo.org/course/view.php?id=329 The opposition procedure at the EPO This course offers a comprehensive overview of the opposition procedure at the EPO, complemented with examples and practical cases. (in preparation) A very good command of spoken and written English is required for all courses. 12  Patent information Patent searching Introduction to patent statistics and PATSTAT Reference PI04-2017 21/24/28/31 March 2017 10.00 to 11.45 hrs (including a break) Reference PI01-2017 15-17 March 2017 Reference PI06-2017 Vienna 26/29 September, 3/6 October 2017 15.15 to 17.00 hrs (including a break) Content Distance learning course – Introduction to PATSTAT – PATSTAT Online versus PATSTAT Raw Data – Installing and querying PATSTAT Content – Overview of tables, elements and patent indicators – Introduction to the basics of the patent system – Predefined patent indicators in PATSTAT Online needed for patent searching – Potential pitfalls – Basics of patent searching – Linking other data sets to PATSTAT – Introduction to patent searching with Espacenet – Result visualisation using external tools – Overview of the different EPO patent information products and services Format – Classroom training Format – Presentations – Live webinars – Hands-on exercises – Four 90-minute modules – Hands-on exercises Learning objectives On completion of the training participants will Learning objectives – understand the benefits of PATSTAT over other On completion of the training participants will patent information products – have a general knowledge of the patent system and – have gained insight into how PATSTAT can be used patent searching – be able to create and interpret statistical analyses – have a general understanding of the benefits of using PATSTAT patent information and how to use it – be familiar with the EPO’s various patent Requirements information products and services Participants should – be able to carry out searches and look up relevant – have basic knowledge of the patent system information with the main EPO patent information – be familiar with bibliographical patent data product, Espacenet – be familiar with Boolean operators – have a strong interest in hands-on patent searches Requirements and statistics No previous knowledge of patent searching is required. – preferably have some knowledge of Structured Query Language (SQL) This course is also suitable for PATLIB centre staff and staff of national offices in non-member states. This course is also suitable for participants from PATLIB centres. For updates, please check www.epo.org/learning-events 13 Patent information/Search and examination Business use of patent information EPOQUE Net searches, including non-patent literature Reference PI07-2017 May-September Advanced level Distance learning course Reference OS28-2017 11-15 September 2017 Content The Hague – Overview of patent information in the business context – Patent analyses: the workflow in daily routine Content – New features Format – Using EPOQUE Net in complex searches and specific – Virtual classroom sessions decision-making processes – Pre-course reading materials – Strategies for structuring and fine-tuning searches: – Assignments limits of such strategies – Practical exercises and case studies – Searching in non-patent literature – Cost monitoring Learning objectives On completion of the course participants will be able to Format – understand the customer’s needs and the problem – Classroom training to be solved – Presentations – identify a suitable analytical approach to solve the – Hands-on exercises problem – perform the analysis Learning objectives – process the results of the analysis On completion of the course participants will – communicate the results to the client – have an in-depth knowledge of advanced EPOQUE Net applications Requirements – be able to build and adapt their search concepts and Participants must have strategies so as to enhance search efficiency – a basic understanding of patent application and – know how to search in non-patent literature granting procedures databases – a good understanding of patent databases and patent searching Requirements Participants must have This course is also suitable for PATLIB centre staff. – at least six years’ experience of search and examination at a national office and sound working experience with EPOQUE Net, or – completed the intermediate-level “EPOQUE Net searches” course This course is also suitable for staff of national offices in non-member states. A very good command of spoken and written English is required for all courses. 14  Search and examination EPOQUE Net: EPOQUE Net: the art of efficient searching the art of efficient searching Intermediate level Advanced level Reference OD07-2017 Reference OD08-2017 September-December 2017 March-October 2017 Distance learning course Distance learning course Live virtual classroom sessions Live virtual classroom sessions Content Content – Use of databases: selection, combination – Use of EPOQUE Net to search actual, complex cases – Syntax: Boolean operators, truncation, data – Review of tool functionalities, in particular exchange, memories operators, transfer of results, Viewer and X-Full – Syntax: combination of result sets, search – Combination of tools for different search strategies statements and ranks – Comparison of results – Syntax, advanced: distance, proximity, exclusions – Relevant bibliographic information: from family Format members to +Class – Short assignments on practical cases set ahead of – Classification symbols – use of relevant fields virtual classrooms – Viewer, basics: working list and navigation – Tutors and participants discuss solutions in virtual – Viewer: spotting the relevant passages, highlighting, classrooms FigureLink – X-Full, general approach: selecting databases, Learning objectives entering search strings On completion of the course participants will – X-Full: sorting results – have a very good understanding of EPOQUE Net and – X-Full: facets how best to search with it – be able to consider different strategies when using Format EPOQUE Net for their searches – Recordings on EPOQUE Net functionalities available – Short examples made available before the virtual Requirements classrooms and discussed live with experienced EPO Participants must have tutors – intermediate-level knowledge of patent searching – Forum for further interaction between participants with EPOQUE Net and with tutors – regular access to EPOQUE Net Learning objectives This course is also suitable for staff of national offices On completion of the course participants will in non-member states. – have a good understanding of EPOQUE Net – be able to use EPOQUE Net to perform efficient basic searches Requirements Participants must have – entry-level knowledge of patent searching with EPOQUE Net – regular access to EPOQUE Net This course is also suitable for staff of national offices in non-member states. For updates, please check www.epo.org/learning-events 15 Search and examination How to understand and draft Drafting written opinions: EPO search reports and written opinions practice at the EPO Advanced level Entry level Reference OC09-2017 Reference OD09-2017 16-19 May 2017 February-April 2017 Vilnius Distance learning course Content Content – EESR and ESOP in the grant procedure at the EPO – Purpose and scope of the European search report – ISR and WO-ISA in the PCT phase – Stages of a European patent application – Review of search report structure and content – Stages of an international application – Consideration of priority at the search stage – Extended European search report (EESR) – Categories of cited documents – Structure and content of the search report and – Structure and legal basis of written opinions search opinion (ESOP, WO-ISA) – Impact of the written opinion in the examination – Evaluating search reports and written opinions procedure – Incomplete search and exclusions Format – Assessment of novelty and inventive step in written – E-learning modules opinions – Virtual classroom sessions – Clarity and lack-of-unity objections in written – Practical exercises opinions – Assignments Format Learning objectives – Presentations On completion of the course participants will be able to – Workshops with hands-on exercises – issue a search report indicating the documents to – Discussions take into consideration – prepare the accompanying search opinion Learning objectives On completion of the seminar participants will Requirements – be familiar with the structure of EPO search reports Participants must have substantial knowledge of and written opinions – reading, understanding and analysing patent – have a clear understanding of the underlying applications concepts with a view to harmonising grant – the basic patentability requirements procedures – the basic requirements for a patent application – know how to make efficient use of the information in search reports and written opinions This course is also suitable for staff of national offices in non-member states. Requirements Participants must have at least six years’ practice in understanding the structure and content of search reports and written opinions. This course is particularly suitable for participants working in the fields of chemistry, physics/electricity or mechanics. It is also suitable for PATLIB centre staff. A very good command of spoken and written English is required for all courses. 16  Search and examination Clarity and unity Novelty and inventive step Entry level Entry level Reference OS08-2017 Reference OS09-2017 6-8 February 2017 8-10 February 2017 Bucharest Bucharest Content Content – Overview of the European patent grant procedure – Novelty: analysis of simple sets of claims and prior art – Clarity and unity issues, and strategies for handling – Different types of prior art them in search reports – Different types of electronic document, e.g. internet – Types of European search report and written opinion disclosures – Inventive step: the problem-solution approach Format – Introduction to special cases, e.g. partial problems, – Presentations alternative solutions, implicit features or non- – Group work on practical examples essential/technical features – Discussion of participants‘ own cases – Other indications of inventive step Learning objectives Format On completion of the course participants will have – Presentations – gained insight into the basic problems associated – Group work on practical examples with clarity and unity issues in applications at the – Discussion of participants‘ own cases search and/or examination stage – looked at strategies for efficiently dealing with such Learning objectives issues On completion of the course participants will be able to – perform feature analyses on simple sets of claims Requirements and compare the claimed subject-matter with the Participants must have at least six months‘ experience prior art of search and examination – take into account the different types of electronic document, including the use of documents retrieved This course is particularly suitable for participants working in from the internet the fieldsof biology/chemistry/pharmaceuticals and physics/ – understand the basic criteria for determining novelty electricity/mechanics. and inventive step – apply the principles of inventive step assessment We recommend combining it with the intermediate (OD38- using the problem-solution approach 2017) course on clarity and unity (April-May 2017) and/or the entry-level (OS09-2017) course on novelty and inventive step Requirements (immediately following this course), which complement the subject-matter. Participants must have at least six months‘ experience of search and examination This course is particularly suitable for participants working in the fields of biology/chemistry/pharmaceuticals and physics/electricity/mechanics. We recommend combining it with the entry-level (OS08- 2017) course on clarity and unity (immediately preceding this course) and/or the intermediate (OD39-2017) course on novelty and inventive step (June-July 2017), which complement the subject-matter. For updates, please check www.epo.org/learning-events 17 Search and examination Assessing clarity and unity Assessing novelty and inventive step in patent applications in patent applications Intermediate level Intermediate level Reference OD38-2017 Reference OD39-2017 April-May 2017 June-July 2017 Distance learning course Distance learning course Content Content – Clarity under Article 84 EPC – Novelty under Article 54 EPC – Clarity and sufficiency of disclosure (Article 83 EPC) – Inventive step under Article 56 EPC – Unity of invention under Article 82 EPC – Assessing prior art – Methods for determining unity of invention – Methods for determining inventive step: the problem-solution approach Format – E-learning content Format – Video recordings – E-learning content – Practical exercises – Video recordings – Interactive discussion via virtual classroom sessions – Practical exercises and an online forum – Interactive discussion via virtual classroom sessions – Assignments and an online forum – Assignments Learning objectives On completion of the course participants will be able Learning objectives to apply the criteria for clarity and unity of invention in On completion of the course participants will be able line with EPO practice. to assess novelty and inventive step in line with EPO practice. Requirements Participants must have at least two years’ experience Requirements of searching/examining patent applications. Participants must have at least two years’ experience of searching/examining patent applications. We recommend combining this course with the entry-level online course on patentability criteria at We recommend combining this course with the entry-level https://e-courses.epo.org. online course on patentability criteria at https://e-courses.epo.org. This course is also suitable for staff of national offices in non-member states. This course is also suitable for staff of national offices in non- member states. A very good command of spoken and written English is required for all courses. 18  Search and examination Clarity and unity: Clarity and unity: analysis of patent applications analysis of patent applications Intermediate level Advanced level Reference OS11-2017 Reference OS12-2017 20-22 March 2017 20-22 March 2017 Munich Munich Content Content – Overview of the patent grant procedure – Strategies and legal background for dealing with – Clarity, unity and sufficiency of disclosure issues, clarity, unity and sufficiency of disclosure issues at strategies for handling them in search reports, the search and examination stage borderline cases – Systematic review and overview of EPO case law – Types of European search report and written opinion – Case studies on selecting suitable strategies for handling highly complicated cases Format – Presentations Format – Group work on practical examples – Presentations – Discussion of participants’ own cases – Group work on practical examples – Discussion of participants’ own cases Learning objectives On completion of the course participants will have Learning objectives – gained insight into the problems associated with On completion of the course participants will have clarity, unity and sufficiency issues in applications at – consolidated their knowledge of dealing with clarity, the search and examination stage unity and sufficiency issues at the search and – looked at strategies for efficiently dealing with such examination stage issues – acquired and practised efficient strategies, enabling – gained a first understanding of the harmonisation them to handle highly complicated cases and train of practice newcomers Requirements Requirements Participants must have Participants must have – at least four years’ experience of search and – at least six years’ experience of search and examination, or examination – attended an entry-level course on clarity and unity – preferably attended a previous intermediate-level seminar This course is particularly suitable for participants working in the fields of biology/chemistry/pharmaceuticals or physics/ This course is particularly suitable for participants working in electricity/mechanics. the fields of biology/chemistry/pharmaceuticals or physics/ electricity/mechanics. It is also suitable for staff of national offices in non-member states. We recommend combining it with the intermediate (OS14-2017) or advanced (OS15-2017) course on novelty and We recommend combining it with the intermediate inventive step (immediately following this course). (OS14-2017) or advanced (OS15-2017) course on novelty and inventive step (immediately following this course). For updates, please check www.epo.org/learning-events 19 Search and examination Novelty and inventive step Novelty and inventive step Intermediate level Advanced level Reference OS14-2017 Reference OS15-2017 22-24 March 2017 22-24 March 2017 Munich Munich Content Content – Review of novelty and inventive step assessment – Review of novelty and inventive step assessment criteria criteria – Review of types and uses of prior art – Review of special cases, e.g. partial problems, – Special cases, e.g. partial problems, alternative alternative solutions, implicit features, selection solutions, implicit features, selection inventions and inventions and feature juxtaposition/aggregation feature juxtaposition/aggregation – Related EPO case law – Other indications of inventive step – Assessment of novelty and inventive step in complex scenarios Format – Presentations Format – Group work on practical examples – Presentations – Discussion of participants’ own cases – Group work on practical examples – Discussion of participants’ own cases Learning objectives On completion of the course participants will Learning objectives – have improved their knowledge and skills with On completion of the course participants will regard to novelty and inventive step – be familiar with the theory and practice of novelty – be able to deal with special cases of novelty and and inventive step assessment inventive step – be able to make efficient use of the criteria for – have a good understanding of the criteria for determining novelty and inventive step determining novelty and inventive step – be able to confidently apply the problem-solution – be able to confidently apply the problem-solution approach for assessing inventive step approach for assessing inventive step – be aware of related EPO case law – be able to deal with special cases, e.g. partial Requirements problems, alternative solutions, implicit features, Participants must have selection inventions and feature juxtaposition/ – attended the entry-level course on novelty and aggregation inventive step, and/or – at least four years’ experience of patent examination Requirements Participants must have This course is particularly suitable for participants working in – attended the intermediate-level course on novelty the fields of biology/chemistry/pharmaceuticals or physics/ and inventive step, and/or electricity/mechanics. – at least six years’ experience of patent examination It is also suitable for staff of national offices in non-member This course is particularly suitable for participants working in states. the fields of biology/chemistry/pharmaceuticals or physics/ electricity/mechanics. We recommend combining it with the intermediate (OS11-2017) or advanced (OS12-2017) course on clarity We recommend combining it with the intermediate (OS11- and unity (immediately preceding this course). 2017) or advanced (OS12-2017) course on clarity and unity (immediately preceding this course). A very good command of spoken and written English is required for all courses. 20  Search and examination Examination practice in the fields of Discussion platform for exchange nanotechnology/3D printing/use claims on patenting procedures Expert level References OT01-2017 to OT10-2017 Reference OS16-2017 Dates tbd (two days) 10-12 October 2017 Venues tbd Stockholm Content Content Day 1 (for EPO examiners and examiners of the hosting – Patenting procedures in the three fields national office): – Main objections faced by applicants – Classification, search and examination practice in a – EPO case law in the three fields specific technical field – Group discussion about issues encountered when – EPO and national case law in this field examining applications in the three fields – Group work on practical cases and on participants’ Day 2 (for industry, academia and patent attorneys): own cases – Patenting trends in a specific technical field – Examination practice in this field, including EPO and Format national case law Group work in three parallel tracks – Patenting experiences of industrial business, research institutes and universities Learning objectives On completion of the course participants will have Format – further improved their knowledge of and – Presentations expertise in the particularities of examination in – Case studies nanotechnology, 3D printing and use claims – Discussion of files – drafted a synthesis in their respective field which summarises the main issues faced in practice and Learning objectives how to overcome them On completion of the event participants on Day 1 will – have exchanged information on the latest Requirements developments in patenting practices and procedures Participants must be senior examiners in their field, in a specific technical field with at least eight years’ professional experience. – have a better mutual understanding of standard working procedures – be able to harmonise their working procedures, where appropriate, through better use of the tools and patent information available Participants on Day 2 will have a better understanding of patenting practices and procedures of the EPO and the national office in a specific field. Requirements Day 1: Participants must have a minimum of two years’ professional experience. Day 2: Participants must have sufficient knowledge of patents/a sufficient level of patent practice. Only national offices which have opted for the P07 project in their Bilateral Co-operation Plans (BCPs) are eligible for this event. For updates, please check www.epo.org/learning-events 21 IP management/Legal and procedural issues IP for EU officials and policy makers The European patent system from filing to grant Reference OC18-2017 6 December 2017 Brussels Reference OS20-2017 4-7 April 2017 Bled Content – Mandate, projects and achievements of European IP institutions (EPO and EUIPO) Content – Changes in IP legislation, including the unitary – Filing a European patent application – patent minimum requirements – IP rights, innovation and economic implications – Examination and processing of formalities – Copyright: main issues with respect to patents, at the EPO trade marks and designs – Search and examination procedure at the EPO – Licensing and technology transfer – Post-grant: opposition procedure at the EPO – Access to and use of IP information – Interlocutory revision procedure at the EPO – IP and globalisation, competition law, trade – Boards of appeal and appeal procedure regulations and standards – Selection of recent board of appeal decisions – Enforcement of IP rights – Unitary patent and Unified Patent Court – IP as a strategic tool Format Format – Classroom training – Presentations – Presentations – Topical cases – Workshops Learning objectives On completion of the seminar participants will have Learning objectives a clear understanding and knowledge of the legal and On completion of the event participants will practical aspects of the patent process for European – have an overview of the main recent developments applications, including the forthcoming unitary patent in IP policies – have an overview of the different challenges in IP Requirements protection, in particular initiatives in the field of Participants must have sufficient knowledge trade marks, industrial designs and patents of the patent system (ideally at least two years). – have gained insight into topical issues related to IP – understand better the changes in the global This course is also suitable for PATLIB centre staff framework of IP and the European patent and trade and staff of national offices in non-member states. mark systems – have developed a better understanding of IP in relation to competition law, trade regulations and standards Requirements Participants must be in a managerial position and be engaged in public policy issues. This event is being organised in co-operation with the EUIPO and the Belgian Office for Intellectual Property (OPRI). A very good command of spoken and written English is required for all courses. 22  Legal and procedural issues The EPO, an inside view: Plant varieties and patents on plants: focus on oppositions defining the scope of protection Reference OW31-2017 Reference OC17-2017 7-9 November 2017 (tbc) 19 May 2017 The Hague Brussels Content Content – Formal requirements for filing opposition – Legal framework – Substantial requirements for opposition – Protection requirements in the two systems, – Procedural steps for opposition before the EPO variety definition – Oral proceedings in opposition – Focus on: novelty – Conclusion of the opposition procedure – Prior art in relation to Distinctness, Uniformity, – Post-opposition procedure Stability (DUS) and to novelty and inventive step – Appeal procedure – Examples of patent claims related to plants and plant materials Format – Varieties – transgenic plants – Presentations – Conventional plants – Small-group tutoring – Breeding methods – Detailed study of actual cases – Molecular markers – Hands-on exercises – Novel breeding methods and their impact – Preparation of mock oral proceedings on plant variety protection – Role play in mock oral proceedings – Related case law – Attendance at real oral proceedings (observer status) Format Learning objectives – Presentations On completion of the training participants will have – Discussions – an overview of the opposition procedure before the EPO Learning objectives – gained insights into the legal and procedural On completion of the course participants will requirements of the EPO opposition procedure – be aware of both systems – have acquired knowledge of the borderline Requirements and possible interaction between the two forms Participants must have of protection – at least six years’ experience of patent search – have knowledge of how to get the necessary and examination legal information – attended the distance learning course on opposition procedure at the EPO (OD19) in previous years Requirements Participants must have at least a general knowledge of the field of plant breeding and related technical terminology. This course is being organised in co-operation with the Community Plant Variety Office (CPVO). For updates, please check www.epo.org/learning-events 23 IP office tools and techniques Efficient dialogue between patent IP pre-diagnosis examiners and attorneys/applicants Entry level Reference OS23-2017 Reference OS21-2017 17-19 October 2017 April 2017 (two days) Helsinki Vienna Content Content – Basics of communication and efficient dialogue – The role of registered and unregistered IP rights – Efficient communication in written form with in a competitive business environment attorneys/applicants – IP as a tool for business development – Efficient oral dialogue with attorneys/applicants – Introduction to the IP pre-diagnosis service for SMEs in technology sectors, with little or no experience Format of IP – Presentations – Making IP pre-diagnosis useful for SMEs: how to – Hands-on exercises engage with SMEs, analysis of an IP status of an – Role-playing exercises SME, value of an IP policy for an SME, forecast – Exchange of experience of competitive advantages generated by IP, recommendations for action and competencies Learning objectives required by SMEs On completion of the seminar participants will be able to communicate more efficiently with applicants and Format attorneys, both orally and in writing, resulting in a – Presentations more efficient patent prosecution process. – Practical cases – Role-playing exercises Requirements Participants must have at least Learning objectives – two years’ patent examination experience On completion of the course participants will – basic experience of dialogue with applicants/ – have acquired a detailed knowledge of attorneys the IP pre-diagnosis scheme – be able to deliver the service to SMEs Requirements Participants (up to two per country) must have – at least two years’ experience in the field of IP/ patents, preferably with contact to businesses – proven communication skills A very good command of spoken and written English is required for all courses. 24  IP office tools and techniques Extended IP pre-diagnosis support IP Executive Week Reference OS22-2017 Reference OS41-2017 October (two days) 3-7 July 2017 Luxembourg Alicante Content Content Day 1, which is held as an EPN event, centres on – IP policies of the EPO, EUIPO and national offices reviewing existing practices and further developing – IP law and practice the IP pre-diagnosis training for the future. – Enforcement Day 2 focuses on priority topics in this subject area: – User views – IP pre-diagnosis tools and techniques for SMES – Utilisation of IP information tools and learning and universities materials – Identifying suitable target groups – Tools for co-operation and exchange – Promotion of the service – Quality assurance and process control Format – Evaluation of the service’s effectiveness – Presentations – Support and financing – Hands-on exercises – Discussion of best practice Format – Exchange of experience – Presentations – Exchange of experience Learning objectives – Discussion of best practice On completion of the event participants will have – exchanged ideas and acquired knowledge about the Learning objectives IP system and developments in IP office projects and On completion of the course participants will have strategies – gained insight into how to efficiently deliver the – networked with peers in other IP offices IP pre-diagnosis service to SMEs and universities – increased their co-operation efficiency – exchanged ideas and practices on how to develop an IP pre-diagnosis methodology and establish the Requirements framework for implementing the service in their Participants must be in a managerial position countries or act at expert level in their national office. Requirements This event is being organised in co-operation with the EUIPO. Participants (up to two per country) must have – at least two years’ experience in the field of IP/ It is also suitable for staff of national offices in non-member patents, preferably with contact to businesses states. – proven communication skills For updates, please check www.epo.org/learning-events 25 Core search and examination training for national office staff in member states Learning Reference Course type Course topic Course Course level: Course Course level: category level: entry intermediate level: expert (8 or (0-2 years’ (2-6 years’ advanced more years’ experience) experience) (6-8 years’ experience) experience) Documen- E-learning Self-paced Using the CPC in classification x x tation and 24/7 classification E-learning Self-paced Practical and strategical aspects x x 24/7 of the CPC (exercises and examples) Patent PI01 Classroom Introduction to patent statistics x information and PATSTAT PI04/PI06 Distance Patent searching x learning Search and E-learning Self-paced Searching prior art based on x examination 24/7 patent applications OD07 Distance EPOQUE Net: the art of efficient x learning searching OD08 Distance EPOQUE Net: the art of efficient x learning searching OS28 Classroom EPOQUE Net searches, including x non-patent literature OD09 Distance Drafting written opinions: x learning practice at the EPO OC09 Classroom How to understand EPO search x reports and written opinions OD38 Distance Assessing clarity and unity in x learning patent applications OD39 Distance Assessing novelty and inventive x learning step in patent applications E-learning Self-paced Patentability requirements: x 24/7 clarity and unity, novelty and inventive step OS11 Classroom Clarity and unity: analysis of x patent applications OS12 Classroom Clarity and unity: analysis of x patent applications OS14 Classroom Novelty and inventive step x OS15 Classroom Novelty and inventive step x OS16 Classroom Examination practice in three x selected fields Legal and OS20 Classroom The European patent system x x procedural from filing to grant issues E-learning Self-paced The opposition procedure at x 24/7 the EPO OC02 Classroom Boards of appeal and key x decisions IP office OS23 Classroom Efficient dialogue between x x tools and patent examiners and patent techniques attorneys/applicants 26  Target group: professional representatives For updates, please check www.epo.org/learning-events 27 Professional representatives Well-trained professional representatives before the co-ordinate and support training activities for EPO (European patent attorneys) are a prerequisite for candidates preparing for the European qualifying an efficient procedure during all stages of the patent examination (EQE) as well as for new and experienced prosecution process at the EPO - and can help make an patent attorneys. examiner‘s daily work easier and more effective. The Academy and the Institute of Professional For professional representatives, the European Patent Representatives before the European Patent Office Academy endeavours to provide equal access to (epi) closely co-operate in running numerous lectures training in all member states, and sets out to across the member states. EQE pre-examination EURO-CEIPI Content and format Dates tbd – In-depth articles on major EQE topics, with self- Strasbourg and 38 other cities in Europe evaluation questions – Further sets of multiple-choice questions Content and format – Video tutorials – Basic training course on European patent law – In-depth case studies – CEIPI seminar for the EQE pre-examination – Virtual classroom sessions with tutors – “Cramming course” for the pre-examination – Access to a dedicated support forum paper – Pre-prep courses www.epo.org/pre-exam – Preparatory seminars for the EQE – Special Paper C course – Cramming course for Paper C Oral proceedings workshop www.ceipi.edu 14-15 February Munich 21-22 September 2017 Praktika Intern The Hague 19 September-6 October 2017 Content and format The Hague – Oral proceedings at the EPO – preparation, etiquette and execution Content and format – Important procedural aspects and case law – Three-week internship for patent attorneys relating to oral proceedings – EPO examiners as coaches – How to handle EPO opposition proceedings – Classroom training on EPO tools as a patent attorney – Attendance at oral proceedings – Differences in oral proceedings before the department of first instance and before the boards of appeal – Coached case studies as mock oral proceedings (2) – Debriefing on case studies 28  Professional representatives Annual meeting of EQE tutors and EQE Committee members 6 October 2017 Munich Content and format – Presentation of latest EQE papers – Discussion of answering strategies – Marking scheme feedback – Presentation of upcoming changes to the EQE Life of a patent Content and format Four-day course covering European patent practice, starting with pre-drafting and ending with prosecution Opposition and appeals Content and format One-day seminar for senior professionals in need of updating their understanding of the final phases of the EPO procedures, including relevant case law Unitary patent and the Unified Patent Court Content The unitary patent and the Unified Patent Court explained, in particular with an outlook at how to complement filing strategy before the EPO These events are organised by the Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office (epi) with the support of the European Patent Academy: http://patentepi.com/en/education-and-training 29 30 Target group: judiciary 31 Judiciary While the EPO serves as the granting authority for court will be a single point of jurisdiction competent European patents, there has until now been no to deal with litigation on the unitary patent and, in common jurisdiction to enforce them. This results future, the classical European patent. The current in parallel litigation on the same patent in different system of litigation at national level will, however, countries, and in differing decisions being handed remain in place for the foreseeable future. down by national judges. The European Patent Academy aims to promote harmonised jurisprudence The Academy supports the judiciary in training on in the member states by working to create a sound patent matters through varied offerings, ranging from knowledge of patent litigation amongst the judiciary. classroom training to publications. It also supports judges attending conferences of interest (for example In early 2013, the Agreement establishing the Unified the “Boards of appeal and key decisions conference”, Patent Court was signed. This will ensure that one p. 7). EPO patenting procedures for national judges Patent litigation from A to Z Q1 and Q4 2017 E-learning course Munich Content and format Content and format – What is a patent? How do you obtain one? – The life of a file – Patent procedures before the EPO – Patentability requirements – Patent disputes – Case studies – Outcomes to patent disputes – The appeals procedure – Scope of protection and workshop This free online learning course provides judges – Observing oral proceedings with a comprehensive overview of the elements and issues arising in patent litigation and infringement procedures. Judicial internship programme www.epo.org/litigationAtoZ 6-30 June 2017 Munich UPC-related training Content and format – Studying case files and participating in oral Q1 and Q2 2017 proceedings Budapest – Visits to the Munich District Court and the German Federal Patent Court Content and format – Exchange sessions with the boards of appeal – Advanced training on UPC Rules of Procedure, – Mock proceedings: interns preside over a case including patent topics and “judge-craft” argued by patent attorneys – Complex mock trial demonstrating the use of specific rules of procedure Intensive one-week course on patentability followed – Dominated by group work and debate on the by three weeks shadowing a technical board of application of the rules appeal This event is being organised for UPC candidate judges by the UPC Training Centre in Budapest, with the support of the European Patent Academy. 32  Judiciary Patent litigation seminars Introductory level Special topics Q1 or Q2 2017 Q3 or Q4 Venue tbd Munich Content and format Content and format – The importance of IP to innovation and economic – Patentability requirements and basics of chemical/ growth in Europe pharmaceutical compounds – Framework of the patent system in Europe and – Second medical use claims patentability requirements – Sufficiency of disclosure – Scope of protection – Disclaimers – Practical workshop on scope of protection – Parameters – Defences and procedural issues – Implementation of the Enforcement Directive These seminars are held in various EPC contracting – Mock proceedings states in co-operation with the respective national office, judicial academy, courts or ministry of justice. The level will vary depending on the needs of the Intermediate level audience. The seminars are open to judges in EPC contracting states sitting in courts competent to Q2 or Q3 2017 hear patent cases. Venue tbd Content and format – Validity issues, e.g. obviousness and sufficiency, including case law comparisons – Contributory infringement – Interpretation of claims according to Art. 69 EPC – Remedies and injunctive relief – Mock proceedings 33 34 Target group: academia 35 Academia Academic and research organisations invest heavily particular science and engineering. It aims to reach in creating scientific knowledge, much of which could researchers across all faculties, training lecturers, be open to patent protection and commercialisation. teachers, students and TTO staff, and promoting the A clear IP policy and a proper IP management value of IP at the level of policy-makers working in infrastructure are vital to ensure that full benefit is education. derived from this investment. The Academy supports well-established IP masters, Today‘s students - tomorrow‘s engineers, lawyers, chairs, workshops and summer schools by providing researchers, designers, managers and entrepreneurs training concepts, programmes, advice, experts as well - need at least a basic understanding of the nature of as material, in particular to add a European dimension IP and its importance to society. This will enable them to the activity. to use the patent system to support innovation in their future careers. Europe‘s educational institutions All activities in the Academia area are aimed at: are in the best position to impart this knowledge, by – Disseminating IP knowledge to students and incorporating it into their curricula. researchers in science and engineering faculties – Training teaching staff within these faculties and The European Patent Academy supports universities TTOs to serve as multipliers and public research organisations in introducing – Supporting academic networks and associations patent-related IP subject-matter into faculties, in – Encouraging patent-related IP research activities Annual European Progress Conference on From idea to market – an introduction Dissemination of IP Knowledge in Universities for researchers 24-25 January 2017 Dates tbd ETH Zurich On-site workshops and e-learning course Content and format Content and format – Teaching IP in business schools – Case studies – Bridging the gap between TTOs and researchers – The European patent system – Activities and products to disseminate IP in – Searching for patents universities – Developing an IP strategy – IP education and awareness at ETH Zurich – How to protect my IPR – Fostering co-operation between universities and national patent offices – Key features for a successful IP culture in universities – Challenges for universities in commercialising research results – Promoting IP awareness in universities – Beyond teaching: promoting IP research activities – Key features for a successful European network of IP training institutions and IP teachers – The benefits to students of learning about IP 36  Academia Study visit for student groups 17 February 2017 23 June 2017 12 October 2017 Munich 21 March 2017 The Hague Sample content and format – Examination and procedural issues at the EPO – Recent developments in the European patent system and the outlook for the future – EPO practice in selected technical fields “Train-the-trainer” workshop with the IP teaching tools of the Academy Dates and venues tbd Sample content and format – Introduction to the IP teaching tools – How to prepare your lectures (tips and tricks) – A lecturing experience with the IP Teaching Kit – Searching for patents 37 38 Target group: business 39 Business The European Patent Academy provides training at a gaps in the exploitation of valuable research results, variety of levels for industry and emerging small and and patent databases are a valuable source of technical medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular. and commercial information. For many companies, obtaining and maintaining sound The Innovation Support area mainly reaches the protection for their intellectual assets is an essential target audience through intermediaries, including all element of their business model. They also need to the potential sources of advice to which a business ensure that they have freedom to operate for their might turn: Licensing Executives Society (LES), products and services, so that they are not infringing BusinessEurope, IPR Helpdesk, Enterprise Europe any third-party IP rights which might otherwise hinder Network, chambers of commerce, patent information them. IP facilitates the transfer of knowledge, to avoid centres, IP brokers, and so on. Patenting inventions – IP management from idea to commercialisation Q2 2017 Q2 or Q3 2017 Q3 or Q4 2017 Venue tbd Four live virtual classroom sessions Content and format Content and format Presentations on – Four main pillars of IP management – the European patent system – Development of IP strategy – protection and commercialisation of research – IP portfolio management results Q&A session and panel discussion Patenting in biotech Q3 or Q4 2017 Commercialisation of technology Munich Q1 or Q2 2017 Content and format Q3 or Q4 2017 Presentations on E-learning module plus five live virtual classroom – business development in the biotech industry sessions – services for biotech businesses at the EPO Content and format Panel discussion on current trends in biotech – Open innovation patenting – IP commercialisation – Evaluation – Valuation (including case study and exercises) 40  Business Business use of patent information Patenting inventions and preparing for the unitary patent package Q3/Q4 2017 Eleven live virtual classroom sessions Q3 or Q4 2017 Venue tbd Content and format – Business use and customers’ needs Content and format – Problem-solving approaches Presentations on – Conducting searches – why patents matter – Evaluation and communication of search results – the patenting procedure at the EPO: from filing to grant Tutor-facilitated exercises in groups (using – post-grant procedures: opposition and appeal Espacenet as search tool) and online test – the unitary patent and the Unified Patent Court – the last miles – benefits of the unitary patent system for SMEs Patent searching – update on the national ratification process – SME case studies Q1 or Q2 2017 – entry-level course Q3 or Q4 2017 – advanced-level course Q&A session Four live virtual classroom sessions each Content and format Unitary patent package for SMEs – Patent searching strategies and techniques – Search tool introduction Q3 or Q4 2017 Live virtual classroom session Q&A session and tutor-facilitated exercises (using Espacenet and the European Patent Register Content and format as search tools) – Presentation on unitary patent package matters – Q&A session with an EPO expert – Presentation on an SME case study The European patent system – – Q&A session “Train-the-trainer” course Q3 or Q4 2017 Venue tbd Content and format Presentations on – the patenting procedure at the EPO: from filing to grant – patentability criteria – post-grant procedures at the EPO: opposition and appeal – the unitary patent and the Unified Patent Court – the last miles – benefits of the unitary patent system in a nutshell – SME case studies Q&A session and panel discussion 41 42 Materials 43 Materials for national IP office staff Getting the message across Both brochures contain a summary of the outcome of each of the three days of discussions. This brochure is based on a three-day seminar on efficient communication for examiners from The 2017 seminar will focus on nanotechnology, national IP offices. A series of presentations as well as 3D printing and use claims. It will be held interactive role plays and practice sessions showed in Stockholm on 10-12 October (p. 21). participants how to efficiently communicate when writing and speaking to attorneys and applicants. In 2017 this seminar will be held in Helsinki Effective outreach on 17-19 October (p. 24). Nowadays, even national IP offices cannot afford to take a passive role when it comes to communication. At a seminar on external outreach activities, Pharmacy, biotechnology participants learned how to develop and implement and industrial chemistry communication plans and how to promote new services and products to specific audiences among and others. This brochure presents best practices in awareness and outreach implementation by IP offices. CII, disclaimers and added subject-matter All these brochures can be downloaded from: Within the scope of a seminar for experienced www.epn-cooperation.org examination practitioners, EPO and national office examiners had an exchange of views and discussed their practices in the fields of pharmacy, biotechnology and industrial chemistry. In another seminar, practices in the fields of computer-implemented inventions, disclaimers and added subject-matter were discussed. Getting the message across CII, disclaimers and How patent examiners can learn added subject-matter Effective outreach to communicate efficiently Examination experts exchange views How IPOs can communicate with their audiences In co-operation with European Patent Academy European Patent Academy 44  Materials for EQE candidates and judges European qualifying examination – Patent litigation in Europe Guide for preparation The fourth edition of “Patent Litigation in Europe” provides an updated overview of the national patent This guide is a collection of explanations, information litigation systems across the European Patent and advice that gives candidates a head-start on Organisation‘s 38 member states, giving readers organising the time they spend preparing for the an at-a-glance description of the different national examination. It allows them to channel their efforts revocation, nullity and infringement procedures so as to maximise their chances of passing the currently in place, as well as information about the examination through better understanding of what competent courts dealing with these matters at first the EQE is. It also suggests the best order in which instance and appeal. It also contains information on to tackle the subject-matter, and provide hints on the Unified Patent Court. examination technique. The overview can be downloaded from: The guide can be downloaded from: www.epo.org/litigation-MS www.epo.org/study-guide European qualifying examination Guide for preparation l 5th edition Patent Litigation in Europe An overview of national law and practice in the EPC contracting states 4th edition 2016 in co-operation with European Patent Academy 45 Materials for academia and business IP Teaching Kit The IP Teaching Kit (IPTK) is a follow-up to the The IPTK includes ready-made PowerPoint slides successful Patent Teaching Kit launched in 2010 by the with speaking notes and additional background European Patent Academy. With the IPTK, teaching information. The speaking notes can be read out as professionals have at their disposal free of charge an they stand. The background information provides extensive set of teaching materials which constitutes additional details which will help lecturers prepare one of the most comprehensive IP teaching resources for the more advanced questions that students might in the world. have. It is not intended for this information to be included in the lecture. Produced by the EPO in co-operation with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), The materials can be tailored to the students‘ the IPTK enables teachers to put together lectures background (science or engineering, business or law), and presentations on all kinds of IP, including patents, their knowledge of the topic, their learning goals and utility models, trade marks, copyright, designs and the time available. trade secrets. It is made up of the following modules: IP Basics, IP Advanced I and II, IP Search Tools and IP The various modules of the IP Teaching Kit can be Management. downloaded from: www.epo.org/teaching-kit The IPTK also includes two case studies that are part of a special issue on IP management of the California Management Review produced in collaboration with the EPO. Intellectual Property Teaching Kit Intellectual Property Teaching Kit Intellectual Property Teaching Kit IP Advanced Part I IP Search Tools IP Basics Patents, utility models and designs Patents Espacenet, the European Patent Register, TMview, TMclass, Designview, eSearch Plus, eSearch Case Law, EuroLocarno, TMclass and EUIPO Registry 46  Materials for academia and business Research? Think patents ip4inno This booklet looks at how IP culture is evolving at The ip4inno training material, which was developed universities and public research organisations. It with the support of the European Patent Academy, has illustrates how researchers are making greater use resulted in a range of online training offers for use in of patents, which are increasingly being regarded as “train-the-trainer” events designed to equip business an important measure of performance. It also gives advisers and trainers with the tools they need to some advice on the disclosure of research and points provide training to emerging small and medium-sized researchers towards sources of further information. enterprises (SMEs) as well as industry in high-tech and high-growth sectors. The booklet can be downloaded from: www.epo.org/publications A total of 22 modules cover topics such as IP commercialisation, business planning with IP, copyright and related rights and IP enforcement. Exercises and case studies are included. Translations of the modules are available in 15 languages, including Bulgarian, Czech, Croatian, Hungarian, Polish, Romanian, Serbian, Spanish and Turkish. To find out how to access the ip4inno materials, go to: www.epo.org/ip4inno on 4 Research? Think patents tents or 47 Materials for academia and business Case studies on IP management for SMEs Inventors’ Handbook Case studies are a valuable tool for training purposes The purpose of the Inventors‘ Handbook is to provide and help create awareness among businesses. basic guidance on all the key stages of turning an Following an improved case study format developed invention into a commercial product. In addition by the European Patent Academy in co-operation to patent search and IP topics, business aspects with the EPO’s Chief Economist, SMEs from different are discussed as well. This guide is intended to regions in Europe operating in a broad variety of help inventors obtain a 360° view on invention industries were interviewed about their IP strategy and commercialisation and – doing so – to avoid many underlying business cases. The resulting case studies of the common mistakes associated with innovation summarise the key take-home messages for emerging projects. SMEs looking to develop appropriate IP management capabilities. The publication will be made available in print as well as in electronic format, and also as an e-book. A series of up to 15 case studies will be published in print as well as in electronic format. Inventors' handbook From invention to innovation European Patent Academy 48  Materials for academia and business Best of Search Matters A special issue of the Elsevier journal “World Patent Information” (WPI) is being published which will include a selection of papers based on presentations from the Search Matters events between 2012-2016. Search Matters is an annual event that showcases the EPO‘s patent search strategies and techniques as well as the use of various publicly accessible databases and search programmes. According to participants – many of whom are repeat attendees – it is more a “must- have” than a “nice-to-have” event. Search Matters is mainly targeted at patent-search specialists from larger companies. This special issue of WPI will bring it to the attention of SMEs as well. Readers will not require a subscription to access the relevant articles. Distribution will be mainly in electronic format, but a limited number of printed copies for marketing purposes will be available as well. 49 50 E-learning 51 E-learning The e-learning centre of the European Patent Academy major events such as “Search Matters” and the is the entry point to a wide range of online training. “Boards of appeal and key decisions conference”. Over the years the offering has developed to form a comprehensive range of materials, with different access types and media. This development is ongoing, Technology and we endeavour to keep the material up to date, generating new content and deactivating old materials Committed to simplifying accessibility and as they become obsolete. transportability, the Academy uses common tools which produce content playable on any device. The platform is largely based on Moodle, our e-learning Access modules are in html format tailored to fit small computer screens, and videos are played from a – Stand-alone modules streaming server. A mobile version of the system is also These modules are topic-based and can be accessed available for iOS and Android devices. at any time without registration. – Courses To follow one of our courses, users must register To find out more about the Academy’s e-learning with us in the e-learning centre. offering, go to https://e-courses.epo.org The self-paced courses are available 24/7 and merely require an account with us in the e-learning centre. The tutored courses are synchronous courses in which experts answer questions in forums, deliver webinars or correct assignments. Registration for these courses is subject to a deadline. The courses for IP offices and related institutions, including the EPO’s co-operation training activities, are accessible by invitation only. Topics Our online training covers most of the patent procedure, from search to opposition, and including search tools, classification in CPC and the PCT procedure. Other topics include preparation for the EQE, innovation protection for businesses and academics, patents in research, legal changes and oral proceedings. We also make available recordings of 52  E-learning The European Patent Academy’s e-learning offer 53 Imprint Published by European Patent Office Munich Germany www.epo.org Status: November 2016 © EPO 2016 Responsible for the content Richard Flammer Principal Director Patent Information – European Patent Academy Design EPO Graphic Design Munich Printing xxx 54 European Patent Academy European Patent Office Bob-van-Benthem-Platz 1 80469 Munich Germany Tel. +49 (0)89 2399 - 5454 [email protected] www.epo.org/learning From: Annette Hollreiser [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, November 30, 2016 6:20 PM To: Margus Viher <[email protected]> Cc: François-Régis Hannart <[email protected]> Subject: [VÄLJAST] 2017 Training catalogue Dear Margus, Today, just one day after the Academy Supervisory Board held its annual meeting, we would like to draw your attention to the brand-new 2017 training catalogue and the attached letter, which is being sent out jointly by the Principal Director Patent Information - European Patent Academy and the Principal Director European and International Co-operation. Best regards Annette Hollreiser Conferences & events officer European Co-operation | Dir. 5.1.1 European Patent Office Bob-van-Benthem-Platz 1 | 80469 Munich | Germany