Invention Identification
Invention Identification is the initial step taken by a researcher who, during the course or at the onset of their research, recognises that the invention or technology may have commercial potential. An Invention ID Form, is filled out which serves as an official document in the process of initiating the commercialisation process.
The information in an IID form is confidential and is treated as such by all involved in the process.
IIDs can be made to the IP Manager, a Commercial Manager or your Dean.
Confidentiality
Given the importance to all parties of maintaining confidentiality at the early stages of the project an Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) is signed by all interested parties. The NDAs are managed by the IP Manager.
Simple Process Overview
You can find a diagram of WaikatoLink's Invention Identification process here (also as Visio diagram)
Patents & Publication
It is essential for research to be adequately protected. It should be disclosed to WaikatoLink two to three months in advance of public disclosure. This will give WaikatoLink time to evaluate the technology, perform a patent search, and prepare and file a patent application, if necessary.
Failure to disclose to WaikatoLink in a timely manner may mean that the technology is publicly disclosed before any IP protection has been secured. This will result in the inventor(s) own publication becoming prior art for the potential patent. This means that a patent will not be an eligible form of protection for you and all commercialisation rights for your technology may be lost.