The Computational Technology Patent Wave: Strategies and Future for Taiwanese SMEs and Startups

With the rapid advancement of technology, computational technology has emerged as one of the most prominent and sought-after fields in the current tech landscape. Currently, computational technology patents are being actively pursued and continue to grow on a global scale. Computational technology is destined to become a primary battleground for future patent litigation.

As technology continues to advance rapidly, computational technology has become a leading domain in the tech industry. The chart below illustrates the patent application data received by TIPO (Taiwan Intellectual Property Office) and WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) in 2022.

Excerpt from the Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (TIPO) - Comparative Analysis of Patent Application Trends with WIPO in 2022

In the case of TIPO's patent applications, computational technology accounts for 9.0%, second only to the semiconductor field's 14.5%. However, for WIPO's patent applications, computational technology takes the lead with a 10.4% share. The chart clearly highlights the significance of computational technology in global patent deployment. In contrast, the semiconductor sector occupies only 3.3% of the market, ranking tenth in all sectors.

Exploring patents related to computational technology, they fall under the "G06: Calculation; Computation; Counting" category of the International Patent Classification (IPC). Currently, popular AI technologies also fall within this category.

Popular Patent Application Technologies

When discussing patents in computational technology, current popular technologies include AI, Big Data, Cloud Computing, and Smart Healthcare. This article will provide insights into patent strategies for each of these popular technologies:

1. AI (Artificial Intelligence): AI technology has found widespread applications across various industries, from healthcare and finance to manufacturing. For AI-related patents, it's crucial to provide detailed descriptions of algorithms, data processing methods, and specific application scenarios.
    
2. Big Data: With the explosive growth of data, effectively storing, analyzing, and utilizing it has become a significant challenge. Patents in Big Data technology should focus on data processing, analytical methods, and specific application areas.
    
3. Cloud Computing: Cloud computing offers a flexible and scalable computing resource solution. Patent applications should detail architecture, resource management, and service delivery methods.
    
4. Smart Healthcare: Post-COVID-19, smart healthcare has gained prominence, especially in telemedicine applications. AI and Big Data technologies enable disease prediction, patient monitoring, and healthcare resource allocation. Furthermore, telemedicine technology allows doctors and patients to conduct video consultations from different locations, significantly improving healthcare service efficiency and accessibility. For patents related to smart healthcare, detailed descriptions of the technology's principles, application scenarios, and specific solutions are essential.

For Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)

1. In-depth Market Research: SMEs should thoroughly understand market demands and determine the direction of their technology development. Focus on patenting technologies with commercial value. Understanding market dynamics can help businesses anticipate future technology trends and position themselves accordingly.
    
2. Collaborate with Large Enterprises or Research Institutions: Consider partnering with larger corporations or research institutions to jointly develop new technologies and file patents. This not only enhances the quality of patents but also broadens the technology's coverage. In Taiwan, one of the most prominent research institutions is the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI). In 2022, ITRI filed 315 invention patent applications, far ahead of the second-place Metal Industries Research & Development Centre, which filed 84.
    
3. Utilize Government Resources: Governments offer various resources and subsidies, and SMEs should take full advantage of these resources. Subsidies can support opportunities for project approval and future in-depth research. For example, the "Innovation R&D" grant from the Taipei City Industry Development Program.
    
4. Build Intangible Assets:Patents serve not only as a means of technology protection but also as intangible assets. They can increase a company's market value, enhance its competitiveness, and become crucial for technology collaboration or licensing with other companies.

For Startups or Individuals

1. Focus on Innovative Technology: Startups or individuals should concentrate on developing innovative technologies and prioritize patent applications to protect their technological achievements, even for concepts not yet commercialized.
    
2. Seek External Funding Support: Consider seeking support from venture capitalists or angel investors to secure the necessary funds for technology development and patent applications. This ensures continued investment in technology development and patent filing. For example, consider the "Entrepreneurship" grant from the Taipei City Industry Development Program.
    
3. Develop a Patent Strategy: Establish a clear patent strategy, determining the priority and scope of patent applications, and regularly evaluate your patent portfolio. Moreover, gain a detailed understanding of the rights and benefits of patents, viewing them as intangible assets that enhance overall value.

In Conclusion

Computational technology patents are actively being pursued and continue to grow on a global scale. Computational technology is poised to become a primary battleground for future patent litigation.

Computational technology is not only extensively applicable, but also has numerous unexplored patent opportunities in various fields such as healthcare and finance. The low resource requirements for computational technology, thanks to cloud computing, make it an essential area for Taiwan's SMEs and startups. However, remember that patent protection is crucial to safeguarding innovations, preventing imitation, and enhancing a company's intangible assets. A well-structured intellectual property strategy is a cornerstone for business development.