Guide to IP helps engineers protect their work

1 min read

International law firm Bird & Bird collaborated with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on the Intellectual Property Guide for Engineers, to help engineers protect and exploit their work.

The guide introduces the IP rights available in the UK, and explains how they can be used to protect a range of work produced. It outlines some of the considerations surrounding the exploitation of IP rights in the UK; explains technical terms; and puts into plain language the broad structure, scope and infringements associated with IP law.


There is a reference table to help you quick-check IP rights; and a case study illustrates how these rights may be identified and exploited in practice.

Robert Williams, a Partner at Bird & Bird, said: "At the core of an engineer's role is innovation. This guide aims to provide engineers with a practical understanding of how IP protection can facilitate innovation, whilst protecting the investment made in development. Using the guide can enable engineers to spot opportunities for the effective use of IP rights and take positive steps to act upon them."