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The Role of Intellectual Property in the Engineering and Technical Sector
Die Rolle des Geistigen Eigentums im Ingenieurwesen und den technischen Wissenschaften
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:29:13
Abstract
The lecture gives an overview of the fundamental aspects of intellectual property, which plays an important role in the daily routine of engineers and scientists. The lecture aims to make participants aware of the various methods of protection and to put them in a position to use this knowledge in the workplace.
Objective
In recent years, knowledge about intellectual property has become increasingly important for engineers and scientists. Both in production and distribution and in research and development, they are increasingly being confronted with questions concerning the patenting of technical inventions and the use of patent information. The lecture will acquaint participants with practical aspects of intellectual property and enable them to use the acquired knowledge in their future professional life. Topics covered during the lecture will include: - The importance of innovation in industrialised countries - An overview of the different forms of intellectual property - The protection of technical inventions and how to safeguard their commercialisation - Patents as a source of technical and business information - Practical aspects of intellectual property in day-to-day research, at the workplace and for the formation of start-ups. Case studies will illustrate and deepen the topics addressed during the lecture. The seminar will include practical exercises on how to use and search patent information. Basic knowledge of how to read and evaluate patent documents as well as how to use publicly available patent databases to obtain the required patent information will also be provided.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC , DS , DR , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Die Rolle des Geistigen Eigentums im Ingenieurwesen und den technischen Wissenschaften |
|
28 h semesterly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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Type B: Reflection About Subject-Specific Methods and Contents (Subject-specific courses. Particularly relevant for students interested in those subjects. All these courses are also listed under the category “Typ A”, and every student can enroll in these courses.)
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Electives (This is only a small selection. Other courses from the ETH course catalogue may be chosen. Please consult the "Richtlinien zu Projekten, Praktika, Seminare" (German only), ).)
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Economics, Law and Management Electives (These subjects are particularly suitable for students planning to apply to the Master's Degree Program in Energy Science and Technology (MSc EST) or Management, Technology and Economics (MSc MTEC).)
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Tracks (all): Electives (This is only a short selection. Other courses from the ETH course catalogue may be chosen in agreement with your tutor. As an alternative to the elective courses, students may do a second semester project or an internship in industry. Please consult your tutor.)
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Doctorate Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (More Information at: )