Industrial property

What is a patent?

A patent is a legal title that grants an inventor the exclusive, time-limited right to exploit an invention. Specifically, it gives the patent holder the right to prevent third parties, without their consent, from making, using, marketing, selling, or importing a patented product, or from applying, using, marketing, selling, or importing products obtained through a patented process (Italian Legislative Decree No. 30 of 10 February 2005 – Industrial Property Code).

Patents protect inventions, utility models, and new plant varieties. By contrast, trademarks, industrial designs and models, and semiconductor topographies are protected through registration. Beyond safeguarding intellectual property, these legal instruments serve as valuable means of disseminating scientific knowledge, comparable to academic publications, while also facilitating technology transfer and creating opportunities for additional revenue generation for universities.

A patent remains valid for 20 years from the filing date, provided that the required maintenance fees are paid. It cannot be renewed or extended beyond this period. Patent protection is territorial, meaning it is effective only in the countries or regions where protection has been obtained. Depending on the desired geographical coverage, applicants may seek national, European, or international patent protection. An Italian patent application may also be extended to other countries within 12 months of its filing date, while retaining the original priority date.

What can be patented?

In general, patents are granted for new inventions that involve an inventive step and are capable of industrial application. Patentable subject matter may include:

• Products and devices
• Industrial processes and methods
• Chemical compositions and materials
• Machinery and equipment
• Computer-implemented inventions and software (where patentability requirements are met)
• Agricultural and food-related innovations
• Industrial designs and manufacturing solutions

To qualify for patent protection, an invention must satisfy the fundamental patentability requirements of novelty, inventive step (non-obviousness), and industrial applicability.

How to apply for a patent:

Researchers interested in filing a patent application or obtaining information on intellectual property protection should contact the Knowledge Enhancement and Social Impact Area.