In a decisive move aimed at improving efficiency and safeguarding the integrity of the U.S. intellectual property system, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has announced the suspension of expedited examination for design patent applications, effective April 17, 2025. The policy change was officially detailed in a notice published in the USPTO’s Official Gazette on April 14.
The decision comes in response to a 560% surge in requests for expedited design application reviews—a trend the USPTO attributes in large part to a rise in fraudulent filings. This suspension is part of a broader strategy to reduce the growing inventory of unexamined design applications, curb misuse of the system, and ensure accurate and fair processing for legitimate applicants.
Key Reasons Behind the Suspension
According to the USPTO, the unexpected spike in expedited examination requests has placed significant pressure on examiners and contributed to increased backlogs in the design application pipeline. Much of this rise, the agency notes, is linked to fraudulent filings, which not only distort processing timelines but also pose risks to the integrity of the U.S. intellectual property system.
The USPTO also cites a rise in erroneous micro entity certifications—false claims to fee discounts intended for small applicants—as a factor in its decision. These certifications have become a growing concern in recent years, complicating the patent review process and necessitating additional scrutiny.
What the Suspension Means for Applicants
Starting April 17, 2025, the USPTO will no longer grant requests for expedited examination of design applications, including any renewed or pending requests submitted on or after that date. In line with this change:
Associated fees will be refunded in full for requests made after the effective date.
The USPTO will continue to examine design applications under its standard timeline, as it works to reduce overall pendency and inventory.
Impact on the Design Patent Community
The suspension will have a notable impact on companies and individuals relying on faster design patent protection for products with short market cycles, particularly in sectors like fashion, consumer electronics, and packaging design. However, the USPTO maintains that ensuring quality and transparency in the application process outweighs the short-term disruption caused by the policy shift.
Industry analysts suggest that while the suspension may create delays for some innovators, the move is likely to improve the reliability and credibility of granted design patents in the long run, which is critical for both domestic and international enforcement.
Broader Reform Efforts
This policy change is one component of the USPTO’s wider agenda to combat abuse and strengthen the integrity of the IP system. The office has been ramping up enforcement against fraudulent filings, improving data analytics to detect suspicious activity, and refining procedures for certifying applicant eligibility for reduced fees.
The USPTO also continues to explore new technologies and staffing solutions to address examination delays and ensure legitimate applications are processed efficiently.
USPTO
USPTO Streamlines Patent Issuance Timeline with Faster Turnaround Starting May 13
In a move that promises to bring greater efficiency to the U.S. patent system, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has announced a major update to its patent issuance process.
This improvement marks a significant shift in the patenting landscape, providing faster legal recognition of inventions and reducing administrative lag for both individual inventors and companies awaiting protection for their intellectual property.
Transition to Digital Patent Grants Accelerates the Process
The accelerated timeline has been made possible in large part due to the USPTO’s adoption of electronic patent grants (eGrants). With the USPTO now fully transitioned to digital issuance, those time-consuming steps have been eliminated, allowing for quicker finalization of granted patents.
The agency has stated that, once all requirements are met and the Issue Fee is paid, inventors typically receive an Issue Notification within one to two weeks. Under the new process, the formal patent will be granted just two weeks after this notification, as opposed to the previous three-week standard.
Benefits for Inventors and Legal Professionals
This change not only shortens the waiting period for inventors eager to see their rights formally granted, but it also has strategic legal benefits. The reduced timeline cuts down the so-called “lame duck” period—a window of time during which inventors and their legal counsel are still required to submit any known prior art that might affect the patent’s validity. During this period, submissions of relevant information could cause delays in issuance.
By shortening this window, the USPTO effectively reduces the likelihood of last-minute delays caused by prior art disclosures, allowing for smoother and more predictable patent finalizations.
A Win for Innovation and IP Management
The streamlined process is being welcomed by the patent community as a step in the right direction. Faster issuance allows inventors to enforce their rights sooner, boosts the value of patent portfolios more quickly, and provides an advantage to companies working in fast-moving sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals, and biotech.
“This is a smart move by the USPTO,” said a patent attorney at a Washington-based IP law firm. “In a time where speed to market can make or break an invention’s commercial potential, cutting down unnecessary administrative lag can be a game-changer.”
Looking Ahead
The USPTO has been steadily modernizing its systems to better serve inventors, including the roll-out of digital filing systems, the modernization of examiner tools, and now this reduction in issuance lag. These changes reflect the agency’s ongoing commitment to streamlining operations while maintaining high standards for patent examination and grant quality.
As of May 13, inventors who receive their issue notifications can expect to see their patents granted just two weeks later—giving them the legal recognition and rights they’ve earned, faster than ever before.
This improvement marks a significant shift in the patenting landscape, providing faster legal recognition of inventions and reducing administrative lag for both individual inventors and companies awaiting protection for their intellectual property.
Transition to Digital Patent Grants Accelerates the Process
The accelerated timeline has been made possible in large part due to the USPTO’s adoption of electronic patent grants (eGrants). With the USPTO now fully transitioned to digital issuance, those time-consuming steps have been eliminated, allowing for quicker finalization of granted patents.
The agency has stated that, once all requirements are met and the Issue Fee is paid, inventors typically receive an Issue Notification within one to two weeks. Under the new process, the formal patent will be granted just two weeks after this notification, as opposed to the previous three-week standard.
Benefits for Inventors and Legal Professionals
This change not only shortens the waiting period for inventors eager to see their rights formally granted, but it also has strategic legal benefits. The reduced timeline cuts down the so-called “lame duck” period—a window of time during which inventors and their legal counsel are still required to submit any known prior art that might affect the patent’s validity. During this period, submissions of relevant information could cause delays in issuance.
By shortening this window, the USPTO effectively reduces the likelihood of last-minute delays caused by prior art disclosures, allowing for smoother and more predictable patent finalizations.
A Win for Innovation and IP Management
The streamlined process is being welcomed by the patent community as a step in the right direction. Faster issuance allows inventors to enforce their rights sooner, boosts the value of patent portfolios more quickly, and provides an advantage to companies working in fast-moving sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals, and biotech.
“This is a smart move by the USPTO,” said a patent attorney at a Washington-based IP law firm. “In a time where speed to market can make or break an invention’s commercial potential, cutting down unnecessary administrative lag can be a game-changer.”
Looking Ahead
The USPTO has been steadily modernizing its systems to better serve inventors, including the roll-out of digital filing systems, the modernization of examiner tools, and now this reduction in issuance lag. These changes reflect the agency’s ongoing commitment to streamlining operations while maintaining high standards for patent examination and grant quality.
As of May 13, inventors who receive their issue notifications can expect to see their patents granted just two weeks later—giving them the legal recognition and rights they’ve earned, faster than ever before.
Shares of Lupin and Zydus Life Slide After Losing US Patent Case to Astellas Pharma
Shares of Indian pharmaceutical giants Lupin and Zydus Lifesciences came under significant selling pressure on April 16, falling by 3% and 4.5% respectively. The decline followed a ruling by the U.S. District Court in Delaware in favor of Astellas Pharma, the original patent holder of Myrbetriq, a drug used to treat overactive bladder (OAB). The court determined that Lupin and Zydus had infringed upon Astellas’s patent rights, potentially paving the way for the withdrawal of their generic versions from the U.S. market.
Court Ruling Favors Astellas
The dispute centers around the ‘780 patent, which protects the formulation of Mirabegron, the active ingredient in Myrbetriq. Astellas Pharma filed a lawsuit claiming that the generic products manufactured by Lupin and Zydus violated this patent.
The judgment emphasized that the defendants failed to demonstrate that the patent was invalid on grounds such as lack of enablement, inadequate written description, or indefiniteness. With the court upholding the validity of the ‘780 patent, the generics produced by Lupin and Zydus are now under threat of being barred from sale in the U.S.
Financial Implications Loom
Market analysts have raised concerns over the financial impact this legal defeat could have on the Indian pharma companies. Myrbetriq was anticipated to contribute nearly $30 million in quarterly revenues to each company, according to some industry estimates. The ruling could not only impact future earnings but also result in penalties.
Vishal Manchanda, a pharmaceutical sector analyst at Systematix Group, told CNBC-TV18, “We expect a tangible hit to FY26 earnings for both Zydus Life and Lupin due to this development. Moreover, damages and potential penalties, if levied by the jury trial, could further strain their financials.”
The final determination of damages and any remaining disputes over infringement or validity will be taken up in a consolidated jury trial scheduled for 2026.
Companies Respond
In a post-market statement, Zydus Lifesciences acknowledged the verdict and said it is currently reviewing the court order and assessing its implications. “We are evaluating the potential impact of the said order on the operations of the Company and the legal remedies available with the Company,” the statement read.
Both Zydus and Lupin have filed a ‘Motion to Clarify’ in an effort to assert additional arguments regarding the patent’s validity, which the court will consider during the 2026 trial.
Background on Myrbetriq and the Patent Dispute
Myrbetriq, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2012, has been a high-value product in the OAB treatment category, with global sales reaching over a billion dollars annually in recent years. The drug works by relaxing the bladder muscle to increase storage capacity and reduce urinary urgency.
The ‘780 patent, central to the lawsuit, covers specific formulations and the method of administration of Mirabegron. Patent infringement in this context refers to manufacturing or selling a product that falls within the patent’s claim scope without authorization from the patent holder.
The ruling highlights the risks generic manufacturers face when attempting to enter markets dominated by patented medications. It also reaffirms the legal strength of patent protections in the U.S., particularly for high-value pharmaceutical products.
Market Reaction
Investors reacted swiftly to the news, with both Lupin and Zydus Life stocks falling sharply in trading. Analysts believe the market is pricing in not only the potential loss of revenue but also uncertainty around future legal proceedings and penalties.
The verdict serves as a cautionary tale for generics manufacturers and underscores the importance of thorough patent analysis before launching competing products in major markets like the United States.
As the legal battle progresses, the pharmaceutical sector will be closely watching the developments in the run-up to the 2026 trial, which will determine the extent of financial liability and the long-term market prospects for generic versions of Myrbetriq.
Court Ruling Favors Astellas
The dispute centers around the ‘780 patent, which protects the formulation of Mirabegron, the active ingredient in Myrbetriq. Astellas Pharma filed a lawsuit claiming that the generic products manufactured by Lupin and Zydus violated this patent.
The judgment emphasized that the defendants failed to demonstrate that the patent was invalid on grounds such as lack of enablement, inadequate written description, or indefiniteness. With the court upholding the validity of the ‘780 patent, the generics produced by Lupin and Zydus are now under threat of being barred from sale in the U.S.
Financial Implications Loom
Market analysts have raised concerns over the financial impact this legal defeat could have on the Indian pharma companies. Myrbetriq was anticipated to contribute nearly $30 million in quarterly revenues to each company, according to some industry estimates. The ruling could not only impact future earnings but also result in penalties.
Vishal Manchanda, a pharmaceutical sector analyst at Systematix Group, told CNBC-TV18, “We expect a tangible hit to FY26 earnings for both Zydus Life and Lupin due to this development. Moreover, damages and potential penalties, if levied by the jury trial, could further strain their financials.”
The final determination of damages and any remaining disputes over infringement or validity will be taken up in a consolidated jury trial scheduled for 2026.
Companies Respond
In a post-market statement, Zydus Lifesciences acknowledged the verdict and said it is currently reviewing the court order and assessing its implications. “We are evaluating the potential impact of the said order on the operations of the Company and the legal remedies available with the Company,” the statement read.
Both Zydus and Lupin have filed a ‘Motion to Clarify’ in an effort to assert additional arguments regarding the patent’s validity, which the court will consider during the 2026 trial.
Background on Myrbetriq and the Patent Dispute
Myrbetriq, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2012, has been a high-value product in the OAB treatment category, with global sales reaching over a billion dollars annually in recent years. The drug works by relaxing the bladder muscle to increase storage capacity and reduce urinary urgency.
The ‘780 patent, central to the lawsuit, covers specific formulations and the method of administration of Mirabegron. Patent infringement in this context refers to manufacturing or selling a product that falls within the patent’s claim scope without authorization from the patent holder.
The ruling highlights the risks generic manufacturers face when attempting to enter markets dominated by patented medications. It also reaffirms the legal strength of patent protections in the U.S., particularly for high-value pharmaceutical products.
Market Reaction
Investors reacted swiftly to the news, with both Lupin and Zydus Life stocks falling sharply in trading. Analysts believe the market is pricing in not only the potential loss of revenue but also uncertainty around future legal proceedings and penalties.
The verdict serves as a cautionary tale for generics manufacturers and underscores the importance of thorough patent analysis before launching competing products in major markets like the United States.
As the legal battle progresses, the pharmaceutical sector will be closely watching the developments in the run-up to the 2026 trial, which will determine the extent of financial liability and the long-term market prospects for generic versions of Myrbetriq.
Peraso Secures Key Patent Approval for Resilient Wireless Network Technology
Peraso Inc., a leading innovator in millimeter-wave (mmWave) wireless technology, has announced that it has received a Notice of Allowance from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for its patent application 17/846275, titled “System for Seamless Recovery of Distributed Access Points in a Wireless Local Area Network.” The patent is expected to be formally granted in 2025, providing intellectual property protection extending into the year 2042.
The newly approved patent highlights Peraso’s efforts to solve a persistent challenge in large-scale wireless networks — service disruptions caused by the failure or reintegration of access points (APs). As modern networks increasingly rely on numerous APs to maintain connectivity, disruptions due to lost or rejoining nodes can degrade performance and require full system resets. Peraso’s technology aims to eliminate this issue through intelligent, automated AP recovery and seamless reintegration, boosting both reliability and user experience.
Key innovations covered by the forthcoming patent include:
Seamless roaming for client devices when AP connections are lost.
Instant detection of dropped APs and recognition when they rejoin the network.
A secure protocol for restoring encryption keys during AP recovery.
Automatic reconnection of devices to ensure uninterrupted performance.
“This advancement reflects our ongoing commitment to developing cutting-edge solutions in the mmWave wireless space,” said Ron Glibbery, CEO of Peraso. “Protecting our innovations through a strong patent portfolio not only safeguards our work but also delivers long-term value for our customers, partners, and shareholders.”
Peraso has been steadily expanding its intellectual property holdings as it continues to push the boundaries of high-frequency wireless communications. This latest development reinforces the company’s strategic focus on enabling smarter, more resilient wireless systems across enterprise, industrial, and consumer applications.
The newly approved patent highlights Peraso’s efforts to solve a persistent challenge in large-scale wireless networks — service disruptions caused by the failure or reintegration of access points (APs). As modern networks increasingly rely on numerous APs to maintain connectivity, disruptions due to lost or rejoining nodes can degrade performance and require full system resets. Peraso’s technology aims to eliminate this issue through intelligent, automated AP recovery and seamless reintegration, boosting both reliability and user experience.
Key innovations covered by the forthcoming patent include:
Seamless roaming for client devices when AP connections are lost.
Instant detection of dropped APs and recognition when they rejoin the network.
A secure protocol for restoring encryption keys during AP recovery.
Automatic reconnection of devices to ensure uninterrupted performance.
“This advancement reflects our ongoing commitment to developing cutting-edge solutions in the mmWave wireless space,” said Ron Glibbery, CEO of Peraso. “Protecting our innovations through a strong patent portfolio not only safeguards our work but also delivers long-term value for our customers, partners, and shareholders.”
Peraso has been steadily expanding its intellectual property holdings as it continues to push the boundaries of high-frequency wireless communications. This latest development reinforces the company’s strategic focus on enabling smarter, more resilient wireless systems across enterprise, industrial, and consumer applications.
USPTO Releases New Guidance on Patent Eligibility for AI-Based Inventions
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued updated guidance to help innovators, examiners, and stakeholders better understand how AI-related inventions can meet the standards for patent eligibility under U.S. law.
As artificial intelligence continues to evolve and reshape industries, the USPTO has provided detailed insights into how patent claims involving AI technology are assessed—particularly those involving neural networks and machine learning algorithms.
Three Key Takeaways from the USPTO’s Hypothetical Scenarios
To clarify its approach, the USPTO introduced a set of hypothetical AI inventions, including one focused on data anomaly detection using artificial neural networks. The invention is claimed in three different formats to illustrate various outcomes in the patent eligibility process:
Hardware-Based Implementation Supports Eligibility
When an AI system is described as running on specific hardware or integrated with a technical apparatus, it is more likely to be viewed as patent eligible. This approach grounds the invention in a concrete technological framework.
Abstract Model Training Alone May Be Ineligible
Claims that focus only on the high-level process of training and using a model—without grounding it in a technical application—are likely to be considered abstract ideas and therefore patent ineligible under current legal standards.
System Behavior Based on AI Output Boosts Eligibility
The most nuanced insight reveals that how a system reacts to the AI’s output can be crucial. If the invention includes specific actions triggered by the AI’s decision or analysis, this interaction may constitute a patent-eligible technological improvement.
Why This Matters
These insights reflect a growing effort by the USPTO to balance innovation with legal clarity in the rapidly advancing field of AI. The guidance helps applicants craft claims that are more likely to survive scrutiny, especially during examination, appeals, and post-grant reviews.
The update also introduces a new set of AI-specific examples to guide both patent examiners and inventors in determining what constitutes eligible subject matter under existing laws.
Looking Ahead
As AI technologies become more sophisticated and embedded in everyday systems, the USPTO’s 2024 guidance serves as a critical roadmap for innovators seeking robust intellectual property protection. Those developing AI-driven solutions should consider these factors carefully to enhance their chances of securing a valid, enforceable patent.
As artificial intelligence continues to evolve and reshape industries, the USPTO has provided detailed insights into how patent claims involving AI technology are assessed—particularly those involving neural networks and machine learning algorithms.
Three Key Takeaways from the USPTO’s Hypothetical Scenarios
To clarify its approach, the USPTO introduced a set of hypothetical AI inventions, including one focused on data anomaly detection using artificial neural networks. The invention is claimed in three different formats to illustrate various outcomes in the patent eligibility process:
Hardware-Based Implementation Supports Eligibility
When an AI system is described as running on specific hardware or integrated with a technical apparatus, it is more likely to be viewed as patent eligible. This approach grounds the invention in a concrete technological framework.
Abstract Model Training Alone May Be Ineligible
Claims that focus only on the high-level process of training and using a model—without grounding it in a technical application—are likely to be considered abstract ideas and therefore patent ineligible under current legal standards.
System Behavior Based on AI Output Boosts Eligibility
The most nuanced insight reveals that how a system reacts to the AI’s output can be crucial. If the invention includes specific actions triggered by the AI’s decision or analysis, this interaction may constitute a patent-eligible technological improvement.
Why This Matters
These insights reflect a growing effort by the USPTO to balance innovation with legal clarity in the rapidly advancing field of AI. The guidance helps applicants craft claims that are more likely to survive scrutiny, especially during examination, appeals, and post-grant reviews.
The update also introduces a new set of AI-specific examples to guide both patent examiners and inventors in determining what constitutes eligible subject matter under existing laws.
Looking Ahead
As AI technologies become more sophisticated and embedded in everyday systems, the USPTO’s 2024 guidance serves as a critical roadmap for innovators seeking robust intellectual property protection. Those developing AI-driven solutions should consider these factors carefully to enhance their chances of securing a valid, enforceable patent.
Mphasis Secures U.S. Patent for Quantum Machine Learning Breakthrough
In a notable step toward advancing real-world applications of quantum computing, Bengaluru-based IT services company Mphasis announced on Wednesday that it has been granted a U.S. patent titled “System and method for optimized processing of information on quantum systems.” This new intellectual property milestone positions Mphasis at the forefront of innovation in Quantum Machine Learning (QML)—a field rapidly reshaping the future of artificial intelligence and data processing.
🚀 A New Era for Quantum-AI Integration
As quantum computing evolves from theory to practice, one of the major challenges lies in efficiently translating classical data into quantum-compatible formats. Mphasis’ patented solution directly tackles this issue by providing a pipeline for transforming high-dimensional classical data into an optimized quantum feature space. This ensures that data is not only properly prepared for quantum processing, but also that it maximizes performance while minimizing resource usage—a key concern with today’s qubit-limited quantum systems.
The technology is designed to:
Reduce the need for additional qubits when dealing with complex, high-dimensional data
Manage large feature sets and data volumes with efficiency
Improve convergence speed during QML model training, thereby shortening time-to-insight
In simpler terms, this patent paves the way for faster, more scalable, and more cost-effective quantum machine learning models—making QML a more viable tool for businesses and researchers alike.
💬 Industry Perspective
Srikumar Ramanathan, Chief Solutions Officer at Mphasis, emphasized the transformative nature of the development:
This sentiment reflects a growing consensus in the tech world that quantum computing—particularly in synergy with AI—holds immense potential to solve complex problems in fields ranging from finance and healthcare to logistics and cybersecurity.
🧩 Why This Patent Matters
While quantum computing remains in its nascent stage, the importance of developing hardware-aware, forward-compatible algorithms and data pipelines cannot be overstated. Most current quantum devices have limited qubit counts and high error rates. By creating methods that optimize data preparation and quantum state loading, Mphasis is future-proofing its QML capabilities for both near-term quantum simulators and more powerful systems to come.
Furthermore, this development is in line with a broader industry trend of investing in hybrid computing solutions—where classical and quantum processors collaborate, each handling tasks they’re best suited for.
🌐 Mphasis: Driving Innovation Beyond Traditional IT
Known for its expertise in cloud, cognitive services, and digital transformation, Mphasis has steadily expanded its footprint in cutting-edge technology domains, including AI, blockchain, and now quantum computing. The new patent is not just a technological feat—it’s a strategic asset that strengthens the firm’s position as a forward-looking technology partner for enterprises navigating the quantum era.
🔮 Looking Ahead
Quantum computing may still be a few years away from widespread enterprise adoption, but milestones like this show that companies like Mphasis are not waiting for the future—they’re building it. By addressing core technical bottlenecks in quantum machine learning today, Mphasis is laying the groundwork for solutions that could redefine what’s possible in data-driven innovation tomorrow.
Patents: A Hidden Cost Trap for Startups – How to Navigate Without Overspending
For many startups, patents seem like a necessary but one-time expense. However, the reality is far more complicated. Filing a patent might appear straightforward, but the costs involved are anything but. From legal fees and government charges to international filings and ongoing maintenance costs, the true expense of a U.S. patent can easily exceed $50,000 over its lifetime.
This hefty price tag raises questions for founders: Is patenting worth it? I’ve seen firsthand how many entrepreneurs hesitate to move forward with patent filings, uncertain whether the return on investment justifies the expenditure. However, skipping patents altogether can present even more dire consequences for your business:
A competitor could beat you to the patent office, locking you out of your own market.
Investors may lose interest if they don’t see a clear intellectual property (IP) strategy.
A legal battle might emerge just as your business gains momentum, forcing you into costly litigation.
So, the question isn’t whether you should patent, but rather how you can do so without draining your resources.
Strategies for Smart Patent Filing on a Budget
The key to navigating the patent process effectively is knowing where to focus your budget. Fortunately, it’s easier than you think. Here are some proven strategies to help you patent without overspending.
1. Identify High-Value Innovations for Patent Protection
Startups often make two costly mistakes when it comes to patents: over-patenting or under-patenting. Both can harm your business.
Under-patenting happens when startups fail to document and protect innovations, allowing valuable ideas to slip through the cracks. Without a structured process like Invention Disclosure Forms (IDFs), innovations may not be patented in time, especially when funds are limited.
Over-patenting involves filing patents for ideas that don’t significantly strengthen your market position. It’s akin to betting on every horse instead of choosing the one with the best odds of winning. Instead, focus on innovations that have the potential to generate revenue or block competitors.
To avoid these pitfalls, use a structured patentability assessment. This process, which involves input from R&D, legal teams, and business leaders, evaluates the patent’s business value, the likelihood of patenting success, and the associated costs. Only the most valuable ideas should move forward.
As a rule of thumb: If losing an idea wouldn’t hurt your business, don’t patent it.
2. Plan Your IP Budget Wisely
Filing a patent without a clear budget is risky and irresponsible. Many startups rush into patent applications, only to run out of funds midway through the process, leaving their filings incomplete or allowing issued patents to expire.
Patent costs accumulate in phases—drafting fees, prosecution costs, government fees, and maintenance costs after the patent is granted. The total cost can soar, especially when foreign patents are involved. If you only budget for the initial filing, you may be forced to abandon a patent midway as costs balloon.
To prevent this, set a comprehensive patent budget before you file. Ensure you account for all phases of the patenting process, from drafting through maintenance. It’s also crucial to discuss fixed-fee structures or end-to-end budgets with your attorney to avoid any surprise costs. Once the patent is in progress, use cost estimation tools to track your ongoing expenses.
A well-planned budget ensures that your patents work for you, not against you.
3. Use Smart Filing Strategies to Cut Costs
Cutting corners on patent filings can be tempting, but it often leads to rejections, poor strategy, or patents that are ineffective when needed most. Here are some smarter ways to save:
Provisional Patents: Start with a provisional patent. For as little as $140 in USPTO fees (with lower legal fees as well), a provisional patent locks in your filing date and gives you 12 months to refine your invention before committing to a full application.
Government Fee Discounts: If you qualify as a small or micro-entity, you can save 50-75% on USPTO fees. Many startups overlook this, leaving money on the table.
Foreign Filings: Avoid rushing into international filings unless you’re committed to those markets. Foreign patent costs can range from $5,000-$10,000 per country initially, with total costs reaching $25,000-$75,000. Start with U.S. filings, then use the PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) system to delay foreign decisions for up to 30 months, giving you more time to assess demand.
Avoid Excessive Prosecution: Don’t waste money on tough examination areas. Use predictor tools to steer clear of technologies where patenting is challenging. You can also analyze examiner statistics and request interviews to improve your chances of success. If your application is unlikely to succeed, consider abandoning it early to avoid sinking more money into a lost cause.
4. Prune Low-Value Patents to Cut Unnecessary Fees
Many startups waste up to 20% of their patent budget on patents that no longer serve their business needs. If a patent is no longer protecting a key technology or providing a competitive edge, there’s no reason to keep paying for it.
Review your patent portfolio annually and study does this patent still align with my business strategy? If not, consider dropping it, selling it, or licensing it to recover costs. If your business has exited a market, stop paying for patents in that market.
5. Use Data, Not Guesswork
Smart patenting isn’t about making intuitive decisions—it’s about using data to guide your moves. The right tools can assess the likelihood of approval, predict overall patenting costs, and reveal cost-saving opportunities. This data-driven approach helps you determine which patents are worth pursuing and maintaining.
Successful innovation managers don’t file patents blindly; they track, analyze, and adjust based on data. If you want to win, adopt the same strategy.
GM Files Patent Application for Turbocharged Engine Torque Response System
General Motors (GM) has filed a new patent application designed to significantly improve the torque response of turbocharged engines, a crucial enhancement for modern automotive performance and fuel efficiency. The patent, assigned the number US 2025/0052207 A1 by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), was published today, offering insight into GM’s latest technological advancement in engine dynamics.
A Step Forward in Engine Efficiency
The application, which GM initially submitted on August 11th, 2023, details a system that aims to optimize the torque delivery in turbocharged engines. Turbocharging, while improving engine efficiency and power, can sometimes result in delayed torque response, often referred to as “turbo lag.” This delay can be frustrating for drivers, especially in performance vehicles or situations requiring quick acceleration.
GM’s innovation, as outlined in the patent, proposes a sophisticated system that addresses this issue by enhancing the throttle response and boosting the speed at which the engine delivers power after throttle inputs. The system focuses on controlling the turbocharger’s operation, adjusting variables like boost pressure and airflow to reduce lag, ultimately providing a smoother and more immediate torque response when drivers need it most.
Key Features of the GM System
The patent describes a dynamic control algorithm designed to adapt to varying driving conditions, from city commuting to high-performance driving. This system uses sensors and real-time data to make fine adjustments to turbocharger operations, ensuring optimal power delivery across a range of engine speeds and load conditions. By intelligently managing how and when the turbocharger delivers boost, the system can reduce the typical hesitation that occurs in traditional turbocharged engines, offering a more seamless and responsive driving experience.
Additionally, the patent suggests that the system could be integrated with various vehicle platforms, including those with hybrid or electric powertrains, further underlining GM’s commitment to improving efficiency across its entire portfolio of vehicles.
Inventors Behind the Innovation
The GM patent application lists several U.S.-based engineers as the inventors, including David Alexander Schmitt, Wesley Rieves Haney, John Garrity Singleton, and Robert Monchamp. These engineers have extensive experience in automotive technologies, and their expertise in turbocharging and engine dynamics has played a pivotal role in developing this innovative system.
Their collective efforts aim to push the boundaries of internal combustion engine performance, meeting consumer demand for both higher performance and improved fuel efficiency, especially in the era of stricter environmental regulations and competition from electric vehicles.
Implications for the Automotive Industry
This patent application is just one example of GM’s ongoing commitment to improving engine performance and efficiency. With a growing focus on hybrid and electric powertrains, GM’s innovations in traditional internal combustion engines may seem increasingly rare. However, turbocharged engines remain a crucial part of the company’s lineup, particularly in performance-oriented vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette and certain high-end Cadillac models.
Improved turbocharged engine response could lead to better acceleration, enhanced driving dynamics, and reduced fuel consumption, helping GM remain competitive in the global automotive market. This development aligns with the company’s broader efforts to integrate advanced technologies across its vehicle offerings, including innovations in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and next-generation infotainment systems.
Next Steps and Industry Impact
Although GM has yet to officially announce when or in which models the system might debut, the publication of the patent suggests that the company is already moving forward with its research and development. If successful, the new turbocharging system could be integrated into future GM vehicles, particularly those aimed at delivering high-performance driving experiences.
For consumers, the adoption of this technology could result in vehicles that feel more responsive, offering quicker acceleration times and a more refined driving experience, without sacrificing fuel efficiency. It could also set a new benchmark for turbocharged engine performance, influencing competitors to adopt similar technologies in their own vehicles.
Conclusion
General Motors’ patent application for a system to improve turbocharged engine torque response marks an exciting development in automotive engineering. As the company continues to refine its internal combustion engine technology, it is clear that GM is committed to delivering vehicles that blend performance, efficiency, and innovation, all while meeting the demands of an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
A Step Forward in Engine Efficiency
The application, which GM initially submitted on August 11th, 2023, details a system that aims to optimize the torque delivery in turbocharged engines. Turbocharging, while improving engine efficiency and power, can sometimes result in delayed torque response, often referred to as “turbo lag.” This delay can be frustrating for drivers, especially in performance vehicles or situations requiring quick acceleration.
GM’s innovation, as outlined in the patent, proposes a sophisticated system that addresses this issue by enhancing the throttle response and boosting the speed at which the engine delivers power after throttle inputs. The system focuses on controlling the turbocharger’s operation, adjusting variables like boost pressure and airflow to reduce lag, ultimately providing a smoother and more immediate torque response when drivers need it most.
Key Features of the GM System
The patent describes a dynamic control algorithm designed to adapt to varying driving conditions, from city commuting to high-performance driving. This system uses sensors and real-time data to make fine adjustments to turbocharger operations, ensuring optimal power delivery across a range of engine speeds and load conditions. By intelligently managing how and when the turbocharger delivers boost, the system can reduce the typical hesitation that occurs in traditional turbocharged engines, offering a more seamless and responsive driving experience.
Additionally, the patent suggests that the system could be integrated with various vehicle platforms, including those with hybrid or electric powertrains, further underlining GM’s commitment to improving efficiency across its entire portfolio of vehicles.
Inventors Behind the Innovation
The GM patent application lists several U.S.-based engineers as the inventors, including David Alexander Schmitt, Wesley Rieves Haney, John Garrity Singleton, and Robert Monchamp. These engineers have extensive experience in automotive technologies, and their expertise in turbocharging and engine dynamics has played a pivotal role in developing this innovative system.
Their collective efforts aim to push the boundaries of internal combustion engine performance, meeting consumer demand for both higher performance and improved fuel efficiency, especially in the era of stricter environmental regulations and competition from electric vehicles.
Implications for the Automotive Industry
This patent application is just one example of GM’s ongoing commitment to improving engine performance and efficiency. With a growing focus on hybrid and electric powertrains, GM’s innovations in traditional internal combustion engines may seem increasingly rare. However, turbocharged engines remain a crucial part of the company’s lineup, particularly in performance-oriented vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette and certain high-end Cadillac models.
Improved turbocharged engine response could lead to better acceleration, enhanced driving dynamics, and reduced fuel consumption, helping GM remain competitive in the global automotive market. This development aligns with the company’s broader efforts to integrate advanced technologies across its vehicle offerings, including innovations in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and next-generation infotainment systems.
Next Steps and Industry Impact
Although GM has yet to officially announce when or in which models the system might debut, the publication of the patent suggests that the company is already moving forward with its research and development. If successful, the new turbocharging system could be integrated into future GM vehicles, particularly those aimed at delivering high-performance driving experiences.
For consumers, the adoption of this technology could result in vehicles that feel more responsive, offering quicker acceleration times and a more refined driving experience, without sacrificing fuel efficiency. It could also set a new benchmark for turbocharged engine performance, influencing competitors to adopt similar technologies in their own vehicles.
Conclusion
General Motors’ patent application for a system to improve turbocharged engine torque response marks an exciting development in automotive engineering. As the company continues to refine its internal combustion engine technology, it is clear that GM is committed to delivering vehicles that blend performance, efficiency, and innovation, all while meeting the demands of an ever-evolving automotive landscape.