Intellectual property information management system, and method for providing intellectual property information through the intellectual property information management system.

Abstract

To provide an intellectual property information service which is excellent in usability and operability, to a user for browsing his or her pending intellectual property information applied to the Patent Office or browsing the progress of examination, deadline management status, or pension payment status.SOLUTION: An intellectual property information management system includes a client terminal operated by a customer, an application terminal that executes processing for electronically filing an application to the Patent Office on the basis of an application request received from the client terminal, and an intellectual property information management terminal for storing and managing intellectual property information electronically filed from the application terminal, for each customer, so that the terminals communicate with each other. The intellectual property information management terminal includes an intellectual property information database which stores various information related to an intellectual property based on an application request from a customer, and receives an intellectual property information browsing request from a customer who operates the client terminal, through a platform that shares intellectual property information of customers in a consolidated manner, to provide intellectual property information of each customer retrieved from the intellectual property information database.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an intellectual property information management system in which a client terminal and an agency terminal that receives an application request via an intellectual property information screen provided to the client terminal can communicate with each other, and an intellectual property information providing method of the intellectual property information management system. Financial Management

Background Art

[0002] Procedures for administrative agencies are progressing towards electronicization. Especially in the field of intellectual property, applications related to intellectual property for the Patent Office, such as patents, utility models, designs, and trademarks, can be installed on an electronic terminal that operates the personal computer application software provided by the Patent Office, enabling various procedures, such as applications, requests for examination of applications, reasons for rejection, opinions, amendment documents, etc., to be exchanged online.

[0003] However, except for corporate intellectual property personnel, even ordinary inventors, due to the complexity of administrative procedures, entrust the application work related to intellectual property to a patent attorney at a patent office, and the documents created in response to the entrustment are generally processed online by the staff of the attorney's office operating the above personal computer application software.

[0004] On the other hand, even on the side that has requested an application, due to various circumstances, there may be a request to grasp the application status at an arbitrary timing, separate from Japanese time. For example, assuming that a patent application filed with the Japan Patent Office is filed internationally in the United States, China, the United Kingdom, Germany, etc. as a family application, or a PCT international application is filed, due to time differences, the confirmation of the procedure status may also be affected by the local time different from Japanese time.

[0005] Also, for venture companies, due to fundraising relationships, the number of stakeholders who want to grasp the application status in a timely manner is increasing. However, if it is outside the business hours of the attorney's office, appropriate advice may not be received in the case of telephone or email correspondence.

[0006] ​ Furthermore, venture entrepreneurs are increasingly seeking to leverage intellectual property to their advantage, not only through patent applications, but also by effectively utilizing a combination of other intellectual property such as utility models, designs, and trademarks.

[0007] Patent Document 1 below describes an intellectual property management device for managing intellectual property cases, comprising: a first storage unit having a record (1) containing case identification items for identifying cases relating to utility models, designs, or trademarks, and a record (1) linked to the case identification items, which includes the content of intellectual property rights and / or the content of an application for obtaining intellectual property rights; and a second storage unit having a record (2) which contains the record (1) relating to the user's case in its original state, or which has been processed or information extracted from the record (1) relating to the user's case, wherein the record (2) contains at least the case identification items, and the intellectual property management device further comprises an update unit that updates the record (2) using the record (1).

[0008] This provides an intellectual property management device that eliminates the need to manually input information into a storage unit when managing intellectual property matters, thereby preventing procedural omissions and errors caused by incorrect or incomplete information entry.

[0009] In the intellectual property management device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the terminal 41 operated by the user 40 displays the managed intellectual property information, such as patents, designs, and trademarks, as a header, along with information on the patents to be managed, the procedural period, the content of the notification, and buttons for details / settings / updates, as shown in Figure 6.

[0010] Furthermore, paragraphs 0076 onwards of Patent Document 1 state that "Content display area (1) 73 and content display area (2) 74 may display, for example, the type of intellectual property (patent, trademark, etc.), case-specific items, the name of the invention, the name of the utility model, the content of the design or trademark, etc. In addition, diagrams or images to help understand the content of the intellectual property may be displayed, or the application number, registration number, publication number, class, number of claims, etc. In addition, for example, the application date, registration date, renewal registration date, date the notice of reasons for refusal was issued, the date the request for examination was filed, etc."

[0011] The expiration date display area 75 may, for example, display the expiration date, the document submission deadline, the procedure deadline, etc. The document submission deadline and the procedure deadline may be treated as a single date.

[0012] Examples of the notification content display area 76 include the content notified by the notification unit 12 in the above embodiment. For example, it can be an area for notifying the user when the expiration date of the right or the deadline for the application procedure falls below a predetermined number of days. In addition, an area for explaining the status of the case may be provided, and information that allows the user to roughly grasp the status of the case may be displayed, such as "right still in effect," "deadline for requesting examination is approaching," "deadline for payment of annuity is approaching," or "deadline for submitting an opinion is approaching." The date can be calculated and the status determined using the items in the record (2) held by the second storage unit 32.

[0013] The description states that there are no particular restrictions on the Details / Settings / Update button 77, and it can be changed as appropriate. It may function as a button that performs any desired action. For example, it may be a button to display details about a case, a button to perform settings (such as email notification settings), or a button to instruct the update unit 11 to perform an update. If it is used as a button to instruct the update unit 11 to perform an update, only the selected record (2) can be updated with record (1)." [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0014] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-128543 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 6650174 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0015] However, the user interface is not designed with web users in mind. In this case, users who want to view intellectual property information are expected to repeatedly perform operations such as selecting an item with a single button on the displayed screen and opening the next screen in a hierarchical structure.

[0016] Similarly, returning to the previous screen requires repeatedly closing the opened screen, and since the program does not anticipate intuitive operation for viewing the information the user wants to see, if the screen layout provided by the program is not simple, it can often feel unnatural and cause users to avoid it.

[0017] For users who have become accustomed to the user interfaces provided by web browsers commonly used on smartphones and tablet devices, the low level of familiarity with the operation and the difficulty in using the management program may prevent it from being effectively utilized.

[0018] Furthermore, even if one can access desired intellectual property information by clicking a web browser, if, for example, after filing a patent application and requesting examination, one wants to know how much stamp duty, fees, etc., were calculated, the process of contacting the office involves calling or emailing the office via the web screen. This means that, despite having a convenient web browser displayed, one has to tell the office their name, pass on the application number to the person in charge, and then wait for the person in charge to open a separate software management screen to check the current status, requiring considerable effort. Thus, it is a double effort for an applicant who has completed the application process to make inquiries by phone or other means while looking at the web screen. Moreover, it has been pointed out that there is no user interface (UI) environment that directly receives inquiries from applicants via the web screen and answers those questions in a timely manner, and that it is not possible to directly provide applicants with a convenient intellectual property information service.

[0019] Furthermore, currently available patent management systems are designed for use by staff at patent offices, and therefore contain a long list of items that are incomprehensible to applicants filing a patent application for the first time who are not familiar with the application process.

[0020] Therefore, no system has been proposed or implemented that allows applicants to obtain and check, in a timely manner, the current phase of their patent application and the information they need. This applies not only to patent applications, but also to trademark applications, design applications, and utility model applications.

[0021] Because procedures with administrative agencies are typically complex, even administrative staff at patent offices must refer to procedural guidelines when preparing documents requested by administrative agencies.

[0022] Also, usually, for applicants who first entrust a patent application to a patent office, not only the progress of the application case but also at the time of final tax return, even when it becomes necessary to calculate the total amount of intellectual property-related expenses paid in that year, if the management of the invoices issued by the patent office is insufficient, it has been time-consuming, such as having to inquire the patent office about the exact expenses.

[0023] In this way, in the current business processing form of patent offices, a service that can easily confirm (24 hours a day) the information necessary for the applicant's position (starting from a request for investigation of an application to the patent office, including progress information such as application, publication, examination, intermediate processing, registration, annuity, etc.) is not provided, and improvement is desired from the applicant's position.

[0024] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a user who is familiar with a WEB browser with a high-convenience and highly operable intellectual property information service that can view their own intellectual property information filed with the administrative agency, view the progress of the examination process, the status of deadline management, the status of annuity payment, etc., without referring to any manuals or the like.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0025] The intellectual property information management system of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

[0026] The present invention An intellectual property information management system in which a client terminal operated by a customer, an application terminal that performs electronic application business processing to the Patent Office based on an application request received from the client terminal, and an intellectual property information management terminal that stores and manages the intellectual property information electronically filed from the application terminal for each customer communicate with each other. The intellectual property information management terminal includes an intellectual property information database that stores various information related to intellectual property based on the application request from the customer, and through an intellectual property information screen provided by a platform that centrally shares the intellectual property information of the customer Different procedural processes for obtaining specific intellectual property rights, corresponding to the customer's operation of selecting keywords that identify the subject of the application. A service providing means for providing an intellectual property information display service for displaying The keywords that identify the subject of the application include the shape, service, sale, and patent displayed on the intellectual property information screen. It is characterized by the following: [Effects of the Invention]

[0027] According to the present invention, users familiar with web browsers can access a convenient and highly user-friendly intellectual property information service that allows them to view their intellectual property information filed with the Japan Patent Office, as well as the progress of the examination, deadline management status, annuity payment status, etc., without having to refer to any manuals. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0028] The drawings illustrate specific embodiments of the present invention, including not only essential components of the invention but also optional and preferred embodiments. [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing an example of an intellectual property information management system. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the client terminal shown. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the intellectual property information management system and intellectual property information database. [Figure 4] Figure 1 shows an example of a user registration screen displayed on the client terminal. [Figure 5] Figure 1 shows an example of a user registration screen displayed on the client terminal. [Figure 6] Figure 1 shows an example of a user registration screen displayed on the client terminal. [Figure 7] Figure 1 shows an example of a user registration screen displayed on the client terminal. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of information exchange between the client side and the intellectual property information management terminal side in the intellectual property information management system shown in this embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a user interface displayed on a client terminal representing this embodiment. [Figure 10]This figure shows an example of a user interface displayed on a client terminal representing this embodiment. [Figure 11] This figure shows the configuration of the user interface displayed on the client terminal's display unit, as shown in Figure 1. [Figure 12] This figure shows the configuration of the user interface displayed on the client terminal's display unit, as shown in Figure 1. [Figure 13] Figure 1 shows an example of the administrator user interface displayed by the intellectual property information management system. [Figure 14] Figure 1 shows an example of a user interface presented to a client terminal by the information management system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 15] Figure 1 shows an example of an intellectual property management table managed by the intellectual property information management system. [Figure 16] Figure 1 shows an example of an intellectual property management table managed by the intellectual property information management system. [Figure 17] This is a flowchart illustrating the intellectual property information service method in the intellectual property information management system shown in this embodiment. [Figure 18] This is a flowchart illustrating the intellectual property information service method in the intellectual property information management system shown in this embodiment. [Figure 19] This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the intellectual property utilization system in the intellectual property information management system shown in this embodiment. [Figure 20] This is a block diagram illustrating the intellectual property acquisition strategy guide function in the intellectual property information management system shown in this embodiment. [Figure 21] This is a flowchart illustrating the intellectual property information service method in the intellectual property information management system shown in this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0029] Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below relate to the intellectual property information management system shown in Figures 1 to 21, and include not only essential components of the invention but also selective and preferred embodiments. In this specification, intellectual property will be referred to as "IP."

[0030] <System Configuration Description> [First Embodiment] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an intellectual property information management system in this embodiment. This example is an intellectual property information management system in which a client terminal operated by a customer, an application terminal (a PC application terminal 7, described later) that processes electronic application operations with the Japan Patent Office based on application requests received from the client terminal, and an intellectual property information management terminal (intellectual property management terminal 2) that stores and manages intellectual property information electronically filed from the application terminal for each customer communicate with each other. The intellectual property information management system may be referred to as IP Connect (registered trademark). Furthermore, this system employs a global megacloud database (DB) for its architecture and data source, enabling the construction of a service in an environment that is less susceptible to common vulnerabilities.

[0031] Furthermore, for logic that cannot be expressed using Appsync and GraphQL, Lambda is used as the Appsync resolver, and since it is run as a disposable process with volatile processing capabilities, the system is configured to fundamentally avoid the intrusion of viruses and malware.

[0032] In short, this system ensures that all clients can continue transactions safely and securely. It is characterized by having a security infrastructure that enables this.

[0033] Furthermore, the intellectual property information management terminal has a management application based on PATDAT®, a commercially available management software. In addition, the service terminal that provides intellectual property information services has the IP Connect® application and the Salesforce® application installed. Here, synchronization is maintained between each application so that API synchronization and RPA (Robotic Process Automation) can be used in conjunction. Note that the Salesforce® application is an example of a customer relationship management (CRM) tool.

[0034] In Figure 1, 1-1 to 1-N are client terminals, consisting of personal computers, tablets, and smartphones with a predetermined operating system installed. D-1 to DN are display units, configured to allow users to freely view progress information on various procedures such as intellectual property information application requests, application processing, intermediate processing, registration processing, and annuity processing, as well as accounting information related to billing and receipt of fees incurred in connection with each procedure, while viewing the user interface screen (a user interface (UI screen) provided by the customer management tool described later). Here, the customer management tool (e.g., Salesforce®) provides an integrated platform that allows for the centralized sharing of information for each individual customer.

[0035] The intellectual property information management system comprises client terminals 1-1 to 1-N, an intellectual property management terminal 2, and an intellectual property information database unit 3. It operates through client terminals 1-1 to 1-N, the internet network 6, and a customer management tool, enabling intuitive and comprehensive information viewing and input, facilitating the exchange of information and various procedural requests between patent attorney offices and applicants. The customer management tool is configured to allow the implementing party to freely edit the UI screen to create a unique web interface. In this embodiment, the patent attorney office manages its clients, who are applicants, by providing a UI screen that crosses distinctive jurisdictional boundaries for information provision. Furthermore, the customer management tool has the functionality to synchronize with multiple already implemented APIs and to link with intellectual property information software installed on PC application management terminals to acquire information. In this embodiment, the services provided by the intellectual property information management system are collectively referred to as IP Connect (registered trademark).

[0036] Thus, the intellectual property information management screen in this system can display relevant progress information for each case for each user on client terminals 1-1 to 1-N in a chronological order. As a result, operations that previously required multiple screens can now be handled on a single operation screen. Therefore, even users unfamiliar with application management can easily operate this system, which provides a user interface environment that is easy to understand and allows for clear instructions.

[0037] In the intellectual property management terminal 2, 4a to 4d are intellectual property information controllers that manage intellectual property information. Intellectual property information controller 4a handles intellectual property information related to patents and utility models, intellectual property information controller 4b handles intellectual property information related to designs, intellectual property information controller 4c handles intellectual property information related to trademarks, and intellectual property information controller 4d handles intellectual property information related to copyrights and unfair competition cases. In addition, the intellectual property management terminal 2 has PATDATA (registered trademark) (product name) installed, which has the function of importing not only application proofs and intermediate processing data from the Japan Patent Office's internet application software, but also images such as patent drawings, multi-view drawings of designs, and trademark samples. Here, PATDATA (registered trademark) is a patent management system for patent offices, and patent offices can install commercially available software with similar functions. In applying the present invention, PATDATA (registered trademark) is used as an example of a patent management system for patent offices, but is not limited to this.

[0038] In this embodiment, we show a configuration in which intellectual property information is provided by intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d, each with its own independent terminal; however, these may also be configured as a single server device.

[0039] Furthermore, on the intellectual property management terminal 2, which has the customer management tool installed, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d launch the customer management tool, and intellectual property information search processing and registration processing are executed across the board. By linking the viewing and registration processing of patents, utility models, designs, trademarks, copyrights, etc. related to a single client, the burden of screen operation during viewing processing for staff on both the client and the office is greatly reduced. In other words, as will be explained in more detail later, when viewing patents, operating the trademark viewing button on the screen will allow the client and the office screens to display intellectual property information across jurisdictions.

[0040] Although intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d can be configured as a single controller, this example shows a configuration with separate controllers to accommodate situations where information processing speed may decrease. Furthermore, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d include a CPU, ROM, RAM, communication unit, display unit, and input unit (not shown).

[0041] In particular, staff members of the patent attorney's office manage access to intellectual property information databases 3A-3D according to their administrator privileges in IP Connect (registered trademark), and perform modifications, additions, and updates to the intellectual property information of users on client terminals 1-1 to 1-N.

[0042] As a result, when moving from a browsing process related to one jurisdiction to a browsing process related to another jurisdiction, as with conventional web display operations, IP Connect (registered trademark) users on the client side can switch to the trademark management screen without any problems, even if they would normally have to close the patent browsing screen to display the trademark browsing screen. This allows for immediate and flexible responses to browsing requests that cross jurisdictions.

[0043] Section 3 is the Intellectual Property Information Database Department, which includes Intellectual Property Information Databases 3A to 3D. Intellectual Property Information Database 3A stores and manages intellectual property information related to patents and utility models based on registered client IDs. Intellectual Property Information Database 3B stores and manages intellectual property information related to designs based on registered client IDs. Intellectual Property Information Database 3C stores and manages intellectual property information related to trademarks based on registered client IDs. Intellectual Property Information Database 3D stores and manages intellectual property information related to copyrights and unfair competition cases based on registered client IDs.

[0044] In this embodiment, the case where the intellectual property information databases 3A to 3D are constructed as a system on the office side is shown, but they may also be constructed as a large-scale memory system secured on the cloud. Furthermore, the intellectual property management terminal 2 is configured as a service terminal that also performs functional processing, and while referring to the intellectual property information databases 3A to 3D which store various information related to intellectual property based on application requests from customers, it receives intellectual property information viewing requests from customers operating client terminals 1-1 to 1-N via a platform (details to be described later) that centrally shares customer intellectual property information, and performs service provision processing to provide each customer's intellectual property information retrieved from the intellectual property information databases 3A to 3D.

[0045] Furthermore, the intellectual property information databases 3A to 3D may be configured to be managed by a blade server that manages multiple blades. Here, a blade server refers to a server in which components such as memory and CPU are mounted in a small enclosure.

[0046] Terminal 7 is a PC application terminal that logs in with an ID assigned to a patent attorney's office with guaranteed security, connects to the Japan Patent Office's application terminal, and transmits application files related to patents, utility models, designs, and trademarks online. In addition, PC application terminal 7 can obtain proofs of application information received by the Japan Patent Office's application terminal.

[0047] The personal computer application terminal 7 is a terminal operated by an employee of a patent attorney's office that has registered an electronic certificate with the internet network 6, and performs online application processing, online mailing processing, online request processing, online viewing processing, PCT-RO application processing, and other retention function processing.

[0048] The Japan Patent Office server 9 processes connection requests from applicants and their agents, accepts electronic documents such as applications, examinations, and appeals, and responds to dispatch requests from applicants and their agents. Tarisu Therefore, it is equipped with a management system 8A and an electronic application database 8B.

[0049] Database group 5, consisting of the Japanese Patent Document Database (JPD) 5A, the US Patent Document Database (USD) 5B, the European Patent Document Database (EPD) 5C, the Chinese Patent Document Database (CNDB) 5D, and the Intellectual Property High Court Judgment Database 5E, is connected to the Internet network 6, allowing intellectual property information to be viewed from the intellectual property management terminal 2 and client terminals 1-1 to 1-N.

[0050] Furthermore, if an applicant operating client terminals 1-1 to 1-N connected to the intellectual property information management system selects the intellectual property information search function, the system will automatically connect to a specified link, such as J-PlatPat, through functional linkage, and display the search screen on display units D-1 to DN.

[0051] Client terminals 1-1 to 1-N are equipped with a communication unit for communicating with IP Connect (registered trademark) via the Internet network 6, display units D-1 to DN, a control unit for controlling the display units D-1 to DN and the communication unit, and a storage unit. Furthermore, client terminals 1-1 to 1-N also have a web browser installed for viewing intellectual property information by connecting to the Internet network 6. As a result, when client terminals 1-1 to 1-N connect to IP Connect (registered trademark) by operating the installed web browser, they are configured to perform viewing and input tasks in synchronization with a customer management system, such as Salesforce (registered trademark).

[0052] Here, when an operator of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N connects to the IP Connect (registered trademark) site, the customer management system synchronized with it is activated, and the intellectual property information screen provided by the intellectual property management terminal 2 is configured to be displayed on the display units D-1 to DN of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N. Furthermore, this invention can be applied not only to wired internet connections but also to wireless (Wi-Fi) connections.

[0053] Intellectual property information databases 3A to 3D store various information generated according to the progress of cases filed at the request of clients, based on identification information assigned to each client, as intellectual property management tables (see Figures 15 and 16). The data structure of the intellectual property management tables will be described later. Here, intellectual property information databases 3A to 3D may be configured to reduce the administrative burden on the firm for both clients and case management by initially registering the identification information as a request acceptance code.

[0054] Here, "miscellaneous information" includes, in the case of intellectual property being patents or utility models, information related to the prior art search process based on application consultations, application process, examination process, intermediate response process, registration process, and annuity payment process.

[0055] Similarly, if the intellectual property is a design, it shall include information related to the prior art search process based on the application consultation, the application process, the examination process, the progress of intermediate responses, the registration process, and the payment of annuities.

[0056] Similarly, if the intellectual property is a trademark, it shall include information relating to the search process, application process, examination process, intermediate response process, registration process, and renewal payment process of prior registered applications based on application consultations.

[0057] An intellectual property information management system that can communicate between a client terminal configured in this way and an intellectual property information management terminal that accepts application requests via an intellectual property information screen provided to the client terminal includes an intellectual property information database unit 3, shown in Figure 1, as a storage unit that stores an intellectual property management table that stores intellectual property information for each client. Here, the intellectual property information database unit 3 also functions as the intellectual property management table shown in Figures 15 and 16.

[0058] Then, based on the identification information assigned to each user of the client terminal, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d perform a registration process via a user interface screen, which is described later, to register various information generated according to the progress of the application requested by the client terminal into the intellectual property management table stored in the intellectual property information database unit 3.

[0059] This allows information about each registered user's intellectual property to be displayed via a web browser anytime, anywhere, in response to requests from users on client terminals.

[0060] Furthermore, based on the identification information input from any of the client terminals, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d execute intellectual property information management processing, which provides any of the client terminals with an intellectual property information management screen for viewing individual client intellectual property information registered in the intellectual property management table read from the intellectual property information database unit 3. This allows users on client terminals who are unfamiliar with the operation of the intellectual property information management screen to access filed intellectual property information with simple operations. Furthermore, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d receive application requests from any of the clients via the intellectual property information management screen. This allows users on client terminals who are unfamiliar with operating the intellectual property information management screen to easily request new applications for intellectual property information they have filed, through a simple web browsing operation.

[0061] Furthermore, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d read progress information for cases filed based on application requests from any client from the intellectual property management table and present it on the intellectual property information management screen using a common user interface. In this display function processing, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d launch Salesforce® and perform IP Connect®, so the client does not need to search and read the filed intellectual property information from the intellectual property information databases 3A to 3D.

[0062] This allows users of client terminals who are unfamiliar with the intellectual property information management screen provided by the aforementioned platform to access their filed intellectual property information with simple and minimal operations, and to check the progress of their filed intellectual property information (application status, examination status, registration status, and annuity payment status) at any time.

[0063] Furthermore, if either client wants to know the progress of cases filed in different jurisdictions based on an application request (for example, if the same applicant is displaying the progress of a patent application and then wants to display the progress of a trademark application), the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d will activate IP Connect (registered trademark), read the intellectual property information of the trademark application from the intellectual property information management table, and display it on a common intellectual property information management screen. This makes it possible to easily and with minimal effort to track the progress of intellectual property information across jurisdictions (from patents to designs, from patents to trademarks, from trademarks to designs, etc.).

[0064] Furthermore, when an application is completed by any of the clients, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d activate IP Connect (registered trademark), which constitutes the customer management system, and read the copy documents related to the application filed from the time of the application request from the intellectual property information management table and display them on a common intellectual property information management screen.

[0065] This allows users of client terminals to print documents related to their patent applications as timely files from their home or office printers, eliminating the need to request resending of documents from the patent attorney's office and thus saving costs.

[0066] Furthermore, when preparing fee estimates and invoices for cases where an application has been completed by any client, the accounting staff of the patent attorney's office will use the intellectual property information controllers 4a-4d to activate IP Connect (registered trademark), read the estimate and invoice documents from the intellectual property information management table, and display them on a common intellectual property information management screen.

[0067] This allows users of client terminals to print out estimates and invoices for their patent applications as documents from their home or office printers in a timely manner. Therefore, even if they lose the sent estimates and invoices, they do not have to request resending of the documents from the patent attorney's office, thus saving on expenses.

[0068] Furthermore, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d activate IP Connect (registered trademark) and read deadline information, including the period, examination request deadline, and patent term specified by the Japan Patent Office, for any application completed by any client, from the application management table and display it on a common intellectual property information management screen.

[0069] This allows users on client terminals to check anytime, anywhere whether there are any situations requiring immediate action regarding their pending applications, or whether pension payment dates are approaching.

[0070] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of client terminal 1-1 shown in Figure 1. Components identical to those in Figure 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. Furthermore, the display unit D-1 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display.

[0071] In Figure 2, 11 is a communication I / O that connects the intellectual property management terminal 2 and client terminal 1-1 shown in Figure 1 via the Internet network 6 using a predetermined Internet protocol (IPv6).

[0072] To connect to the intellectual property management terminal 2, the operator of client terminal 1-1 operates the input unit 14 and enters a URL starting with https:.

[0073] 12 is the application execution unit, which starts up with the installed web browser 12-1 and applications 12-2 to 12-N loaded into RAM from a storage unit (not shown). Here, the web browser 12-1 is a means of browsing the web that connects to the internet network 6 and displays information from the intended site.

[0074] Applications 12-2 to 12-N consist of applications downloaded by the user, including email applications, game applications, document processing applications, spreadsheet applications, PDF applications, etc. The input unit 14 consists of a keyboard, a pointing device, etc.

[0075] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the intellectual property management terminal 2 and the intellectual property information database unit 3 shown in Figure 1. Components identical to those in Figure 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0076] In Figure 3, 21 is a communication interface that connects to client terminals 1-1 to 1-N via the Internet network 6.

[0077] 22 is an IP Connect® client, comprising an intellectual property management service processing unit 22A and an intellectual property management table reference / update unit 22B. The intellectual property management service processing unit 22A performs functional processing of information registration, information updating, and information referencing, including interaction with client terminals registered in the intellectual property information databases 3A-3D of the intellectual property information database unit 3 via a customer management system, such as Salesforce®.

[0078] The IP Connect® client 22 is controlled so that when client terminals 1-1 to 1-N connect to the dedicated website provided by IP Connect®, it is temporarily downloaded into RAM, and when client terminals 1-1 to 1-N lose their connection to IP Connect®, it is deleted from RAM.

[0079] The intellectual property management service processing unit 22A authenticates the login information entered by client terminals 1-1 to 1-N via the internet network 6, and then, after receiving requests for browsing, data registration, and access to accounting information from client terminals 1-1 to 1-N via the user interface screen, it reads the necessary information from the intellectual property information database unit 3 and provides a series of service processes via the communication interface 21 to display it on the display units D-1 to DN of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N.

[0080] Furthermore, a key feature of the intellectual property management terminal 2 in this embodiment is that it provides a service to the client terminal user that allows applicants and registered rights holders who are not familiar with intellectual property rights-related requests, applications, intermediate processing, registration processing, and annuity management processing to easily view the progress of procedures such as idea presentation, application, examination, and registration at any phase. In this way, because the procedures with the Japan Patent Office related to intellectual property rights are complex, a system that provides a service to visualize the progress of procedures to the client user is beneficial from the standpoint of convenience and economic efficiency, and can be said to be a groundbreaking system.

[0081] Furthermore, the intellectual property management table reference / update unit 22B is configured to display edit buttons to initiate editing dependent on the items displayed on the updated intellectual property information screen. Additionally, the intellectual property management table reference / update unit 22B is configured to display create buttons to initiate processing dependent on the items displayed on the updated intellectual property information screen, when used with administrator privileges.

[0082] Specifically, the intellectual property management table reference / update unit 22B displays edit buttons on the updated intellectual property information screen based on the intellectual property management table, which enable editing of items dependent on the displayed items. It also displays create buttons on the updated intellectual property information screen based on the intellectual property management table, which enable document creation of items dependent on the displayed items.

[0083] This allows system administrators to present information to each client user in a single, integrated screen, reducing their operational burden and preventing errors.

[0084] Figures 4 to 7 show examples of user registration screens displayed on client terminals 1-1 to 1-N shown in Figure 1. The user interface provided by IP Connect (registered trademark) will be described in detail below.

[0085] In Figure 4, each user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N launches a web browser and enters account information (a URL for connecting to IP Connect®) into the input unit 14, or selects IP Connect® from a favorites list, etc., thereby displaying the login screen as the home screen provided by IP Connect® on display units D-1 to DN. The following describes how a client user can register new user information with IP Connect (registered trademark).

[0086] [Client-side user interface] In the login screen shown in Figure 4(a), already registered clients can log in by entering their username or email address 41 and password 42. In this example, checking checkbox 43 will reduce the burden of logging in from the next time onward.

[0087] Text button 45 is pressed on the login screen to redirect clients who have forgotten their password to the inquiry screen. Text button 46 is pressed when registering a new account, and when the press of text button 46 is detected, the screen switches to the new registration screen shown in Figure 4(b).

[0088] In Figure 4(b), the client user enters the company name (organization name) in input area 47, the email address in input area 48, the contact phone number in input area 49, and the address in input area 50. After pressing the temporary registration button 51, a password 42 for logging into IP Connect (registered trademark) is sent to the email address entered in input area 48.

[0089] This allows the client to obtain a password to log in to IP Connect (registered trademark). Subsequently, from the login screen shown in Figure 4(a), the client can access the My Page / User Information screen shown in Figure 5 and perform the operations described later.

[0090] In Figure 5, 31-35 are operation tabs, and operation tab 31 functions as a button for IP Connect® to allow clients to check notifications that IP Connect® should notify them of. When IP Connect® detects that operation tab 31 has been pressed, it displays the notification screen shown in Figure 6 on the display units D-1-DN of client terminals 1-1-1-N. Note that 36 is a logout button, which is pressed when a registered user logs out of IP Connect®.

[0091] Figure 6 shows examples of websites that provide information on interacting with IP Connect (registered trademark) via various social networking services (SNS). Examples of websites include YouTube, SNS, email newsletters, and news sites. Tabs 31-36 are tabs. Tab 31 is clicked by the client operator to display notifications. Tab 32 is clicked by the client operator to display case information. Tab 33 is clicked by the client operator to make a new request. Tab 34 is clicked by the client operator to perform literature searches, etc. Tab 35 is clicked to display user information. Tab 36 is clicked by the client operator to log out of IP Connect (registered trademark) displayed by the currently selected tab 31. This allows clients to intuitively understand how to use IP Connect® without any difficulty.

[0092] On the other hand, in Figure 6, when IP Connect® detects that an operation tab 33 displayed on the client's display units D-1 to DN has been instructed, IP Connect® displays a new request screen on the client's display units D-1 to DN by presenting the next screen information to be displayed to the client's web browser. In Figure 7(a), 411 corresponds to the inquiry jurisdiction, where a trademark is currently being selected and the inquiry concerns goods or services. Item 412 is an inquiry category, and it is configured so that you can select options for patents, utility models, designs, trademarks, and others.

[0093] 413 is for the inquiry details, where you enter the specific matters you wish to discuss with the patent attorney's office. 414 is for attachments, which include specific information such as screenshots from URLs showing loss of novelty, experimental data, and presentation materials.

[0094] Figure 7(b) shows the structure of the case information table created by IP Connect® using the new request screen shown in Figure 7(a). The structure of the case information table is not limited to this example and may be adjusted to consist of simpler items. However, including the acceptance number and acceptance date as minimum information useful to the patent attorney's office will enable smoother communication with the client at a later date.

[0095] Figure 8 shows an example of information exchange between the client side and the intellectual property management terminal 2 (IP Connect® registered trademark) side in the intellectual property information management system of this embodiment. In this embodiment, the intellectual property management terminal 2 establishes a system between itself and the web browser of the client terminal by using IP Connect (registered trademark) as an intermediary.

[0096] This allows for more user-friendly communication between the IP Connect (registered trademark) of the intellectual property management terminal 2 and the web browser of the client terminal, while maintaining compatibility with the web browser and providing a smooth communication interface necessary for information acquisition and provision.

[0097] In Figure 8, IP Connect® provides users with user information, case information, search information, and a user interface for notifications to logged-in clients. IP Connect® acquires information through each user interface and automatically registers it in the database described later. At this time, the case information stores and manages the current status (application stage, intermediate processing stage, registration stage, annuity payment stage).

[0098] Furthermore, the estimate prepared by IP Connect (registered trademark) client 22 includes numerical information that is automatically calculated for the costs required in each phase of the application, intermediate processing, registration, and annuity payment stages ordered by each client, as well as client information. Figures 9 and 10 show examples of user interfaces displayed on a client terminal representing this embodiment.

[0099] The case information screen shown in Figure 9 is an example of the user interface displayed on the client terminal when the client operator clicks tab 32 shown in Figure 5. The client, [Company Name], is using IP Connect (registered trademark) to display the status of their patent application, trademark registration application, design registration application, and utility model registration application search requests, or the progress information regarding each procedure. The client can check the progress of intellectual property information managed by IP Connect (registered trademark) anytime, anywhere, 24 hours a day, through this case information screen. Although not displayed on this screen, progress information for family applications linked to Japanese applications can also be checked simultaneously.

[0100] Here, the information display related to the patent application shows the application date, publication date, examination request date, interim responses, registration date, paid annuities, and next annuity payment date in a cross-sectional manner according to the title of the invention, allowing clients to easily understand the progress of their patent application through this screen. In particular, a credit card payment button is displayed for clients who use credit card payments for the next annuity payment date. This significantly reduces the payment burden for clients who pay annuities by credit card.

[0101] Furthermore, in the case information screen shown in Figure 9, using a trademark registration application as an example, buttons B1 and B2 are placed under the item "Application Date." By pressing button B1, all copies of documents issued from the trademark registration application to registration are displayed. This allows the client to easily view copies of documents issued from the trademark registration application to registration simply by operating button B1 on this screen.

[0102] Furthermore, by pressing button B2, the system displays the total amount of fees paid by the client from the start of the application process to the present, as well as a list of invoices issued by the patent attorney's office. This allows the client to easily view a list of invoices issued from trademark application to registration simply by operating button B2 on this screen. The document data format is PDF, but other data formats are also acceptable.

[0103] Figure 10 shows an example of a user interface to be displayed on the display units D-1 to DN of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N shown in Figure 1. This example shows how IP Connect® notifies the client of the investigation results when an investigation request is received on the new request screen shown in Figure 7.

[0104] As shown in Figure 7, when a button to view the report is displayed on the adjustment tab of the new request screen, and the client clicks on report 101, IP Connect (registered trademark) will, according to the information associated with the logged-in client, have the intellectual property information controller 4c retrieve the search results from the intellectual property information database 3C and present the trademark search report screen 102 in report format to the client. This will display the trademark search report screen 102 in report format on the display units D-1 to DN of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N.

[0105] In this example, the trademark search report displays the reporting date, trademark name, search results, comments, and a list of search results. The search results also clearly indicate evaluation information A, B, etc., which assess the likelihood of registration for the searched trademark. This allows the client to know in advance that, upon reviewing evaluation information A, the likelihood of registration is high upon application. Furthermore, the report may also include a percentage indicating the likelihood of registration for evaluation information A and B.

[0106] Furthermore, the search results list is displayed with hyperlinks, so clicking on the corresponding item will take you directly to J-Platpat, where you can compare and contrast the corresponding trademarks. Furthermore, since trademarks include elements such as three-dimensional objects and sounds, controls may be added to render them in 3D or emit sounds.

[0107] Figures 11 and 12 show the configuration of the user interface displayed on the display units D-1 to DN of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N shown in Figure 1. This screen corresponds to an extended screen configuration of the user interface shown in Figure 9. Note that the same reference numerals as in Figure 9 are used and their explanations are omitted. In Figures 11 and 12, tabs 201 to 205 are operation tabs, and tab 201 is the tab that the client can select when requesting a search.

[0108] Operation tab 202 is a tab that clients can select when requesting order search from IP Connect (registered trademark). Operation tab 203 is a tab that clients can select when requesting configuration management from IP Connect (registered trademark).

[0109] Operation tab 204 is a tab that clients can select when requesting notification management from IP Connect (registered trademark). Operation tab 205 is a tab that clients select when requesting a chat from IP Connect (registered trademark). Figure 11 shows the order search screen, illustrating the case where the client selects the operation tab 202 and instructs the client to perform an order search.

[0110] In this example, since quotation number 211, contract number 212, client 213, payment date 214, and status 215 are assigned, the system can search for information ordered by the client by entering information that the client already knows and manages. Once the input for any item is completed and the search button B200 is pressed, IP Connect (registered trademark) searches the intellectual property information database section 3 shown in Figure 1 and displays the search results for the client who requested the order search, in a tabular format, based on quotation number 211, contract number 212, client 213, payment date 214, status 215, invoice name 221, and invoice amount 222. Furthermore, Figure 12 shows the case search screen when the client selects the operation tab 201 and instructs the client to search for cases.

[0111] In this example, the following fields are assigned: commission number 251, name 252, client 253, legal classification 254, status 255, management status 256, and deadline 257. By entering the information that the client already knows and manages, the client can instruct the system to search for case information. Once the input for any of the fields is completed and the search button B200 is pressed, IP Connect (registered trademark) searches the intellectual property information database section 3 shown in Figure 1 and displays the search results based on commission number 251, name 252, client 253, legal classification 254, status 255, management status 256, and deadline 257 to the client who requested the case search.

[0112] [Administrator's User Interface] Figure 13 shows an example of the administrator user interface displayed by the intellectual property management terminal 2 shown in Figure 1. This screen shows the management screen displayed in conjunction with IP Connect (registered trademark) on the display unit (not shown) of the intellectual property management terminal 2.

[0113] In this example, the jurisdiction is for patents, and management items 301-309 are assigned and managed as follows: search, filing date, publication date, examination request date, completed intermediates, intermediate responses, registration date, paid annuities, next annuity payment date, etc.

[0114] Here, by the administrator specifying 301-1 and 301-2, which are assigned to management item 301, the system is configured to automatically open the quotation creation screen and report creation screen, allowing the administrator to input the necessary information.

[0115] Furthermore, by instructing the administrator to press button 302-1 assigned to management item 302, the system automatically sets the information extracted based on the application date and application number, which are listed on the receipt issued when the application documents are electronically filed with the Japan Patent Office at the client's request, as information to be notified to the applicant (client). Furthermore, management item 303 is automatically set as information to be notified, which is determined based on the protected jurisdiction in which the application was filed.

[0116] Furthermore, by instructing the administrator to press button 304-1 assigned to management item 304, the system automatically sets the information to be notified to the applicant (client) based on the examination request date stated on the receipt issued upon completion of the electronic filing of the application examination request to the Japan Patent Office at the client's request, and the application number.

[0117] Furthermore, by instructing the administrator to press button 305-1 assigned to management item 305, the system automatically sets the information extracted based on the submission date and application number stated on the receipt issued upon completion of the online submission (online mailing) of the opinion letter and amendment prepared at the client's request to the Japan Patent Office, as information to be notified to the applicant (client).

[0118] Furthermore, by instructing the administrator to press button 306-1, which is assigned to management item 306, a list of intermediate documents already submitted to the Japan Patent Office can be viewed. Also, by instructing the administrator to press button 306-2, which is assigned to management item 306, the status of "processed" is transferred to the management table that manages the submitted intermediate processes.

[0119] Furthermore, when the administrator instructs the system to press button 307-1 assigned to management item 307, the system automatically sets the information to be notified to the applicant (client) based on the registration date and registration number stated in the receipt when the Japan Patent Office has issued a notification that the submitted patent application has been approved for registration.

[0120] Furthermore, by instructing the administrator to press button 308-1 assigned to management item 308, the system automatically sets the information to be notified to the applicant (client) based on the payment date and payment amount stated on the payment slip, according to the payment slip submitted to the Japan Patent Office at the client's instruction after registration.

[0121] Furthermore, by instructing the administrator to press button 309-1 assigned to management item 309, the system calculates the amount of pension to be paid in the next pension payment after the previous payment, and automatically sets the information extracted based on the payment date and payment amount as information to be notified to the applicant (client).

[0122] Furthermore, by instructing the administrator to press button 309-2 assigned to management item 309, after pension payment, the system checks the next pension payment deadline and payment status, and automatically sets the extracted information based on the payment date and payment status as information to be notified to the applicant (client).

[0123] This allows clients connected to IP Connect (registered trademark) to access necessary information anytime, anywhere, when logged in, and to check application documents, application progress, and annuity payment status.

[0124] Furthermore, if a response regarding whether or not an appeal has been filed is not received from the client via email notification before the appeal date, at the specified timing, three months prior, one month prior, two weeks prior, or one week prior, as shown in Figure 13, an inquiry will be automatically sent to the client.

[0125] Furthermore, when a patent application filed at the client's request receives a registration decision, the registration date and the examination request deadline, which are important dates to manage for annuity payments, etc., will be marked with deadline marks M-1 and M-2 on the list to raise the level of attention given to the client compared to other dates such as the filing date, publication date, and intermediate corresponding date. In this case, it is also possible to incorporate a control that displays text explaining why deadline marks M-1 and M-2 have been assigned to the client when the client indicates deadline marks M-1 and M-2, by storing this text in advance.

[0126] Furthermore, the system may be configured to prevent important patent rights, utility model rights, design rights, trademark rights, etc., from expiring due to expiration by triggering a pop-up chat screen or email notification screen when the client specifies the deadline marks M-1 and M-2, thereby ensuring access to the administrator.

[0127] Figure 14 shows an example of the user interface that the intellectual property management terminal 2 shown in Figure 1 presents to client terminals 1-1 to 1-N. This screen corresponds to the user interface screen that is initially displayed when the MY page shown in Figure 7 is accessed.

[0128] In Figure 14, tabs 14-1 to 14-6 are operation tabs. When a user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N clicks on tab 14-1, it displays a notification screen for registered clients (a screen viewable only by each client).

[0129] When a user on client terminals 1-1 to 1-N clicks operation tab 14-2, a list of case information for the registered client is displayed on display units D-1 to DN of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N.

[0130] When a user on client terminals 1-1 to 1-N clicks operation tab 14-3, a screen for accepting new requests for registered clients is displayed on the display units D-1 to DN of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N.

[0131] When each user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N clicks the operation tab 14-4, a screen for searching for intellectual property information by the registered client is displayed on the display units D-1 to DN of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N.

[0132] When each user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N clicks the operation tab 14-5, a screen displaying the user information of the registered client is displayed on the display units D-1 to DN of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N.

[0133] When each user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N clicks the operation tab 14-6 displayed on display unit D-1 to DN, a chat screen for responding to inquiries from registered clients is displayed on display unit D-1 to DN of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N.

[0134] Additionally, operation tabs 14-11 function as tabs for accepting new patent applications, operation tab 14-12 function as tabs for accepting new utility model registration applications, operation tab 14-13 function as tabs for accepting new design applications, operation tab 14-14 function as tabs for accepting new trademark applications, and operation tab 14-15 function as tabs for accepting new consultations regarding copyright or unfair competition prevention.

[0135] Thus, in this embodiment, including new requests, client requests for intellectual property information are handled across jurisdictions without adopting a configuration that uses different screens for each jurisdiction. Instead, the intellectual property information to be handled can be managed across jurisdictions on a single screen.

[0136] This allows each user of a client terminal to easily access intellectual property information related to registered patents, utility models, designs, trademarks, etc.

[0137] Figures 15 and 16 show an example of an intellectual property management table managed by the intellectual property management terminal 2 shown in Figure 1. Note that this example shows only a portion of the intellectual property information managed by IP Connect (registered trademark), and the configuration may be modified to add other information or delete some of it.

[0138] As shown in Figures 15 and 16, this intellectual property management table includes statuses such as Title 15-1, Search 15-2, Filing Date 15-3, Publication Date 15-4, Examination Request Date 15-5, Intermediate Actions Completed 15-6, Intermediate Actions Completed 15-7, Registration Date 15-8, Paid Annuities 15-9, and Next Annuity / Renewal 15-10.

[0139] Title 15-1 is managed individually for each jurisdiction. For example, in the case of a patent application, the date of acceptance, acceptance number, title of the invention, and related documents are associated and stored in a PDF file in the intellectual property information database 3A. Trademarks are stored in a PDF file with the same items as patents in the intellectual property information database 3C, designs are stored in a PDF file with the same items as patents in the intellectual property information database 3B, and utility models are stored in a PDF file with the same items as patents in the intellectual property information database 3A.

[0140] In Investigation 15-2, each jurisdiction manages its own records individually. For example, in the case of a patent application, the reporting date, quotation, and report are linked and stored as a PDF file in the intellectual property information database 3A. Trademarks are stored in the intellectual property information database 3C as PDF files containing the same items as patents, designs are stored in the intellectual property information database 3B as PDF files containing the same items as patents, and utility models are stored in the intellectual property information database 3A as PDF files containing the same items as patents.

[0141] For applications, each jurisdiction manages its own information individually. For example, in the case of a patent application, the application date, quotation, and application bibliography are linked and stored as a PDF file in the intellectual property information database 3A. Trademarks are stored in the intellectual property information database 3C as PDF files containing the same items as patents, designs are stored in the intellectual property information database 3B as PDF files containing the same items as patents, and utility models are stored in the intellectual property information database 3A as PDF files containing the same items as patents.

[0142] On the publication date 15-4, each jurisdiction manages its information individually. For example, in the case of a patent application, the publication date and publication gazette are linked and stored as a PDF file in the intellectual property information database 3A. Trademarks are stored in the intellectual property information database 3C as PDF files containing the same items as patents, designs are stored in the intellectual property information database 3B as PDF files containing the same items as patents, and utility models are stored in the intellectual property information database 3A as PDF files containing the same items as patents.

[0143] For the examination request date 15-5, the deadline, quotation, examination request date, and submitted documents are linked and stored as PDF files in the intellectual property information database 3A. Trademarks are stored as PDF files in the intellectual property information database 3C, designs as PDF files in the intellectual property information database 3B, and utility models as PDF files in the intellectual property information database 3A.

[0144] Intermediate 15-6, which has been addressed, is stored in the intellectual property information database 3A as a PDF file, with the latest response date and a list of response dates associated with it. Trademarks are stored in the intellectual property information database 3C as PDF files containing the same items as patents, designs are stored in the intellectual property information database 3B as PDF files containing the same items as patents, and utility models are stored in the intellectual property information database 3A as PDF files containing the same items as patents.

[0145] Intermediate response 15-7 is stored in the intellectual property information database 3A as a PDF file, with the deadline, intermediate documents, quotation, response date, and submitted documents associated with it. Trademarks are stored in the intellectual property information database 3C as PDF files containing the same items as patents, designs are stored in the intellectual property information database 3B as PDF files containing the same items as patents, and utility models are stored in the intellectual property information database 3A as PDF files containing the same items as patents.

[0146] For registration dates 15-8, the expiration date, assessment report, quotation, registration date, submitted documents, and registration certificate are linked and stored as PDF files in the intellectual property information database 3A. Trademarks are stored in the intellectual property information database 3C as PDF files containing the same items as patents; designs are stored in the intellectual property information database 3B as PDF files containing the same items as patents; and utility models are stored in the intellectual property information database 3A as PDF files containing the same items as patents.

[0147] The paid annuity records 15-9 are stored in the intellectual property information database 3A, associated with the latest payment date and the paid list. Trademarks are stored in the intellectual property information database 3C as PDF files containing the same items as patents, designs are stored in the intellectual property information database 3B as PDF files containing the same items as patents, and utility models are stored in the intellectual property information database 3A as PDF files containing the same items as patents.

[0148] For the next pension / renewal application 15-10, the next pension / renewal deadline, estimate, submission date, and submitted documents are associated and stored in the intellectual property information database 3A. Trademarks are stored in the intellectual property information database 3C as PDF files containing the same items as patents; designs are stored in the intellectual property information database 3B as PDF files containing the same items as patents; and utility models are stored in the intellectual property information database 3A as PDF files containing the same items as patents.

[0149] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating the intellectual property information service method in the intellectual property information management system shown in this embodiment. (1) to (27) represent the steps, and each step is realized by the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d reading the stored intellectual property information service program from an external storage device (not shown).

[0150] Each user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N enters the URL provided by intellectual property management terminal 2 to connect to (registered trademark) into the screen provided by their web browser. After being authenticated as a legitimate client during the login process, the My Page screen (see Figures 4 and 14) is displayed on display units D-1 to DN (1).

[0151] Next, when each user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N selects one of the operation tabs 14-1 to 14-N by operating an input device, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d work together to determine whether operation tab 14-1, which provides notifications to the logged-in client terminal user, has been selected (2). If it is determined that the client terminal user has selected operation tab 14-1, which provides notifications, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d work together to search the intellectual property information databases 3A to 3D based on the logged-in identification information to find the relevant notification information, read the matching notification information file, and provide the screen information that can be displayed by the web browser of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N through the customer management tool, thereby displaying the notification screen on one of the display units D-1 to DN (8).

[0152] Next, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d determine whether each user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N has instructed the controller to press the button to check the notification displayed on display units D-1 to DN (9). If the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d determine that each user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N has instructed the controller to press the button to check the notification displayed on display units D-1 to DN, they return to step (1). If they determine that the controllers have not instructed the controller to check the notification, they return to step (8).

[0153] On the other hand, in step (2), if the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d determine that the client user has not selected the operation tab 14-1 for providing notifications, they proceed to step (3) to determine whether the user has selected the case information corresponding to the operation tab 14-2 shown in Figure 14. If the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d determine that the client user has selected case information, they proceed to step (10), where the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d, in a coordinated state, search the intellectual property information databases 3A to 3D based on the identification information logged into the client for the case information, read the relevant case information, and present the found case information file as screen information that can be displayed by the web browsers of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N, thereby displaying the case information screen on one of the display units D-1 to DN.

[0154] Next, when a user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N selects one of the headers displayed as case information on a case information screen displayed on one of the display units D-1 to DN (11), the selected case information is read from the intellectual property information databases 3A to 3D and the details of the case information are displayed on the display units D-1 to DN (12).

[0155] Next, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d determine whether each user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N has selected another operation tab as shown in Figure 14 (13). If they determine that no other operation tab has been selected, they return to step (10). If they determine that a different operation tab has been selected, they return to step (1).

[0156] On the other hand, if step (3) determines that each user of client terminals 1-1 to 1-N has not selected the case information shown in Figure 14, the process proceeds to step (4) to determine whether a new request corresponding to operation tab 14-3 shown in Figure 14 has been selected. Here, if the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d determine that the user of the client terminal has selected a new request, the process proceeds to step (14), where the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d determine which of the operation tabs 14-11 to 14-15 provided for each jurisdiction shown in Figure 14 has been selected (14) to (18). Here, if the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d determine that one of the operation tabs 14-11 to 14-15 provided for each jurisdiction shown in Figure 14 has been selected, the case of a patent will be described in detail below.

[0157] In step (14), if the intellectual property information controller 4a determines that operation tab 14-11 corresponding to patent applications has been selected as the jurisdiction, it proceeds to the new request acceptance process by jurisdiction shown in Figure 18.

[0158] On the other hand, if in step (4) it is determined that a new request corresponding to operation tab 14-3 shown in Figure 14 has not been selected, the intellectual property information controller 4a determines whether "Search" corresponding to operation tab 14-4 has been selected. If it is determined that "Search" has been selected, the intellectual property information controller 4a waits in conjunction with the system for the publication number, keywords, etc. to be entered to retrieve the cited documents to be searched from the intellectual property information database unit 3 (19). If it determines that it has been able to obtain the publication file for the corresponding jurisdiction according to the entered information (20), it displays the obtained detailed publication file on the display units D-1 to DN and terminates the process.

[0159] On the other hand, if in step (5) the intellectual property information controller 4a determines that "search" for publications has not been selected, the intellectual property information controller 4a determines whether user information corresponding to operation tab 14-5 has been selected (6). If the intellectual property information controller 4a determines that user information has been selected, it searches the intellectual property information database 3A based on the logged-in identification information, reads the corresponding user information, displays it on display units D-1 to DN (23), and then terminates the process.

[0160] On the other hand, if it is determined in step (5) that user information has not been selected, the intellectual property information controller 4a determines whether the chat corresponding to the operation tab 14-6 is selected (7). If the intellectual property information controller 4a determines that the chat is selected, it displays the chat screen on the display units D-1 to DN of each client terminal 1-1 to 1-N and waits for the users of each client terminal 1-1 to 1-N to enter a message (text) to inquire on the chat screen (24). Once it is confirmed that each user of each client terminal 1-1 to 1-N has entered a message to inquire on the chat screen, it checks the text entered on the chat screen (25). When the corresponding response message is displayed (26), the chat continues, and it is determined that the user is instructed to press the end button located on the chat screen of each client terminal 1-1 to 1-N (27), the chat process is terminated and this process is terminated. Alternatively, instead of terminating the chat, the system may return to step (1).

[0161] Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating the intellectual property information service method in the intellectual property law management system shown in this embodiment. (31) to (36), (41) to (46), (51) to (56), (61) to (66), and (71) to (76) represent the respective steps, and each step is realized by the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d reading and executing the stored intellectual property information service program from an external storage device (not shown).

[0162] Furthermore, since (41)~(46), (51)~(56), (61)~(66), and (71)~(76) follow the same processing as (31)~(36), a detailed explanation will be omitted. If the result in steps (14) to (18) shown in Figure 17 is YES, step (31) is initiated, detailing the case where the request for a new application is for a patent.

[0163] First, the intellectual property information controller 4a displays a patent request input screen for accepting new requests on the display units D-1 to DN of each client terminal 1-1 to 1-N (32).

[0164] Next, the intellectual property information controller 4a waits for a user to input an inquiry to the patent request input screen displayed on the display units D-1 to DN of each client terminal 1-1 to 1-N (33). If it determines that an inquiry has been input from the user, it waits for the user to input a desired response date to the inquiry (34). If it determines that the user has entered a desired response date to the inquiry, it waits for the user to input a method of response to the inquiry (35). If it determines that the user has entered a method of response to the inquiry, the intellectual property information controller 4a retrieves a predetermined request file from the client terminal according to the information entered on the patent request input screen (36), and then terminates the process.

[0165] This means that the request form, which would normally be prepared by the patent attorney's office, is completed at the time the patent application request is received, thereby reducing the manual work required by the patent attorney's office staff and allowing for the uniform assignment of management numbers, etc. Furthermore, since it is possible that new requests may not result in an application, the uniformly assigned management number will be invalidated and then assigned to the next requester. Furthermore, when managing new requests using sequential management numbers, or when managing them using management numbers for each jurisdiction, the system should be configured to allow for flexible adaptation of the management number assignment method.

[0166] [Effects of the First Embodiment] According to this embodiment, users familiar with web browsers can access their intellectual property information filed with the Japan Patent Office, view the progress of the examination process, deadline management status, annuity payment status, etc., without having to refer to any manuals, providing them with a convenient and highly user-friendly intellectual property information service.

[0167] [Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, a system was described in which the process from application request to examination and registration is managed by IP Connect®, which uses a uniform user interface. However, clients who acquire intellectual property rights can contribute to the development of their industry by implementing and using those rights.

[0168] For example, even if a patent is obtained, in order to create goods or other products based on that right, the rights holder needs to show interest in the patent, receive funding, or receive offers from companies that want to create prototypes.

[0169] Therefore, the system may be configured to allow clients to publicly display the intellectual property they have acquired on the web screen provided by this system, present it to interested users, and make a short and clear video of about 5 minutes explaining the use of intellectual property available for viewing at any time, so as to appeal to users (including businesses and funders) who view IP Connect (registered trademark). Furthermore, a messaging function may be added that allows for direct communication between rights holders and users, accepting responses to the videos that are made public.

[0170] Furthermore, the system may be configured to collect data on the number of views and comments on the published videos, evaluate the intellectual information entered during a predetermined period, explore further opportunities for the utilization of intellectual property, and link these with IP Connect (registered trademark). The following describes an embodiment of this system. Figure 19 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the intellectual property utilization system in the intellectual property information management system shown in this embodiment.

[0171] In Figure 19, 200-1 to 200-N are user terminals, consisting of PCs, smartphones, and tablet devices with a predetermined OS installed, and they connect to the IP Connect (registered trademark) site 2A provided by the intellectual property management terminal 2 via the internet network 6 through the installed web browser.

[0172] 210 is a server device that publishes video sites 210-1 to 210-N. In this embodiment, in order to register on the video site, it is possible to upload intellectual property information videos that have been approved by IP Connect (registered trademark), for which payment of an entry fee for a predetermined period has been requested and the intellectual property information has been formally accepted.

[0173] Here, intellectual property videos are designated as official intellectual property information videos that are certified to clearly communicate registered intellectual property information to viewers by being marked with a specified trademark registration mark.

[0174] Here, the video site has a designated area for receiving inquiries from users interested in the acquired intellectual property, and is configured to allow both parties to connect (registered trademark) through the video site. Furthermore, with administrator privileges, videos whose matching public access period has expired are automatically deleted.

[0175] [Effects of the second embodiment] According to this embodiment, in addition to patents registered through examination by the Japan Patent Office or utility model registrations registered without examination, the recognition of each right at the implementation stage for design rights, etc., that have been examined and registered can be significantly improved, thereby securing opportunities for implementation and contributing to the development of industry.

[0176] [Third Embodiment] In this embodiment, in the intellectual property information management system shown in Figure 1, the intellectual property information controllers 4a to 4d assemble an intellectual property portfolio according to the intellectual property scenario selected by each user operating client terminals 1-1 to 1-N, formulate an intellectual property acquisition strategy based on the intellectual property portfolio, and adjust the property management tables shown in Figures 15 and 16 to be customized for each user based on the formulated intellectual property acquisition strategy. Below, an example of the process of assembling an intellectual property portfolio to advise each user and formulating an intellectual property acquisition strategy based on the assembled intellectual property portfolio will be described.

[0177] Figure 20 is a block diagram illustrating the intellectual property acquisition strategy guide function in the intellectual property information management system shown in this embodiment. Components identical to those in Figure 3 are given the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0178] In Figure 20, 22C is the strategy planning processing unit, which is provided in each of the client terminals 1-1 to 1-N. It assembles an intellectual property portfolio according to the intellectual property scenario selected by each user, formulates an intellectual property acquisition strategy based on the intellectual property portfolio, and adjusts the intellectual property management table shown in Figures 15 and 16 to be customized for each user based on the formulated intellectual property acquisition strategy. The strategy planning processing unit 22C is realized by the CPU in the client terminals 1-1 to 1-N loading the OS and applications read from the ROM and HDD into RAM and executing them.

[0179] Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating the intellectual property information service method in the intellectual property information management system shown in this embodiment. (100) to (120) represent the steps, and each step is realized by the strategic planning processing unit 22C, which is installed in the IP Connect (registered trademark) client, reading and executing the stored intellectual property information service program from an external storage device (not shown).

[0180] First, each user registered with IP Connect (registered trademark) operates one of the client terminals 1-1 to 1-N to connect to the URL corresponding to IP Connect (registered trademark). If login authentication is deemed successful (100), the IP Connect (registered trademark) screen is displayed on the display units D-1 to DN. If it is determined that the user has pressed the IP Connect (registered trademark) screen while the IP Strategy Planning button (not shown) is displayed (101), an Idea screen is displayed where the user connecting to IP Connect (registered trademark) selects whether the idea is a product or a method for which they plan to file an application (102).

[0181] If the strategy planning processing unit 22C determines that the selected item on the idea screen is an object (103), it determines whether the object has a distinctive shape and whether the shape button has been selected (104). If the strategy planning processing unit 22C determines that the object has a distinctive shape, it sets the shape flag F1 (105) and displays the application target and scenarios for obtaining rights based on patents, utility models, and designs on the screen (106).

[0182] Next, the strategy planning processing unit 22C determines whether the application strategy planning button displayed on the idea screen has been pressed (107). If it determines that the application strategy planning button has been pressed, the strategy planning processing unit 22C customizes the intellectual property management table to follow the above scenario (108), assigns and displays the necessary operation tabs on the new request screen (109), and terminates the process. Furthermore, from step (109) onward, the various service processes shown in the first embodiment are executed.

[0183] On the other hand, in step (104), if the strategy planning processing unit 22C determines that the shape button has not been pressed, the strategy planning processing unit 22C displays the idea screen on the display unit D-1.

[0184] The strategy planning processing unit 22C determines whether the service button has been selected by the logged-in user (110). If the strategy planning processing unit 22C determines that the service button has been selected by the logged-in user, it sets the business model flag F2 and the naming flag F3 (111).

[0185] Next, the strategic planning processing unit 22C displays the scenario for obtaining rights based on patents and trademarks for the application subject on the display unit D-1 (112). The process then proceeds to step (107). This allows logged-in users to recognize that their ideas may have the potential to be patented or trademarked.

[0186] Meanwhile, in step (110), if the strategic planning processing unit 22C determines that the logged-in user has not selected a service button to display on the display unit D-1, it determines whether the sales button indicating the plan to sell the idea has been pressed (113). Here, if the strategic planning processing unit 22C determines that the logged-in user has already planned to sell and has selected the sales button to display on the display unit D-1, it sets the sales flag F4 (114). Next, the strategic planning processing unit 22C displays the scenario for obtaining rights based on patents, designs, and trademarks for the application subject (115). The process then proceeds to step (107). This allows logged-in users to recognize that their ideas may have the potential to be patented or trademarked.

[0187] Meanwhile, in step (113), if the strategy planning processing unit 22C determines that the logged-in user has not selected the sales button to be displayed on the display unit D-1, it determines whether the user has selected the patent button to be displayed on the display unit D-1 to indicate that the acquired right is a patent (116). If it determines that the user has selected the patent button, the strategy planning processing unit 22C sets the patent flag F5 (119), and the strategy planning processing unit 22C displays the scenario for acquiring rights based on a patent for the application subject on the display unit D-1 (120). The process then proceeds to step (107). On the other hand, if it is determined in step (116) that the patent button has not been selected, the strategy planning processing unit 22C proceeds to step (109).

[0188] Furthermore, if it is determined in step (103) that no object button has been selected, the strategy planning processing unit 22C determines whether the method button to be displayed on the display unit D-1 has been selected (121). If the strategy planning processing unit 22C determines that the method button has been selected, it proceeds to step (120). On the other hand, if it is determined in step (121) that the method button has not been selected, the process proceeds to step (109).

[0189] [Effects of the third embodiment] This allows us to provide users who log in to IP Connect (registered trademark) with an intellectual property acquisition guide function that helps them develop strategies for acquiring intellectual property rights at the idea stage and guides them through the necessary procedures for effective rights acquisition.

[0190] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by a process in which one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more functions. The disclosure relating to the present invention described above can be summarized to at least the following: (1) An intellectual property information management system comprising a client terminal operated by a customer, an application terminal that processes electronic application procedures with the Japan Patent Office based on application requests received from the client terminal, and an intellectual property information management terminal that stores and manages intellectual property information electronically filed from the application terminal on a customer-by-customer basis, wherein the intellectual property information management terminal is equipped with an intellectual property information database that stores various information related to intellectual property based on application requests from the customer, and communicates via an intellectual property information screen provided by a platform that centrally shares the customer's intellectual property information. A scenario for obtaining specific intellectual property rights in accordance with the customer's operation of selecting items to indicate the subject of the application.The system is characterized by comprising a service provision means that provides an intellectual property information display service that displays intellectual property information.

[0191] (1) The service provision means displays, on the intellectual property information screen, a first scenario that specifies patents, utility models, and designs as the subject of the application; a plurality of second scenarios that specify trademarks and patents as the subject of the application; and a third scenario that specifies patents as the subject of the application. It is characterized by the following:

[0199] (3) A method for providing intellectual property information in an intellectual property information management system, comprising: a client terminal operated by a customer; an application terminal that processes electronic application procedures with the Japan Patent Office based on application requests received from the client terminal; and an intellectual property information management terminal that stores and manages intellectual property information electronically filed from the application terminal for each customer, wherein these terminals communicate with each other. The aforementioned intellectual property information management The terminal is equipped with an intellectual property information database that stores various information related to intellectual property based on the application requests from the aforementioned customers, and is a platform that centrally shares the intellectual property information of the aforementioned customers. The service provision step includes providing an intellectual property information display service that displays a scenario for acquiring a specific intellectual property right in accordance with the customer's operation of selecting an item indicating the subject of the application via an intellectual property information screen provided by the service provider. It is characterized by the following: [Explanation of symbols]

[0200] 1-1 to 1-N client terminals 2. Intellectual Property Management Terminal (Intellectual Property Information Management Terminal) 4a~4d Intellectual Property Information Controller 9. Patent Office Terminal

Claims

1. An intellectual property information management system that communicates with a client terminal operated by a customer, an application terminal that processes electronic application procedures with the Japan Patent Office based on application requests received from the client terminal, and an intellectual property information management terminal that stores and manages intellectual property information electronically filed from the application terminal for each customer, The aforementioned intellectual property information management terminal is It is equipped with an intellectual property information database that stores various information related to intellectual property based on the application request from the aforementioned customer, The service provider includes an intellectual property information display service that displays different procedural processes for acquiring specific intellectual property rights in accordance with the customer's operation of selecting keywords that identify the subject of the application, via an intellectual property information screen provided by a platform that centrally shares the customer's intellectual property information. An intellectual property information management system characterized in that the keywords used to identify the subject of the application include the shape, service, sale, and patent displayed on the intellectual property information screen.

2. A method for providing intellectual property information in an intellectual property information management system, comprising: a client terminal operated by a customer; an application terminal that processes electronic application procedures with the Japan Patent Office based on application requests received from the client terminal; and an intellectual property information management terminal that stores and manages intellectual property information electronically filed from the application terminal for each customer, wherein these terminals communicate with each other. The aforementioned intellectual property information management terminal is It is equipped with an intellectual property information database that stores various information related to intellectual property based on the application request from the aforementioned customer, The service provision step includes providing an intellectual property information display service that displays different procedural processes for acquiring specific intellectual property rights in accordance with the customer's operation of selecting keywords that identify the subject of the application, via an intellectual property information screen provided by a platform that centrally shares the customer's intellectual property information, A method for providing intellectual property information for an intellectual property information management system, characterized in that the keywords used to identify the subject of the application include shape, service, sale, and patent as displayed on the intellectual property information screen.

Images