Research and innovation are fundamental for cohesion and
competitiveness in all European regions. Some people argue that the focus in
“Convergence” or “Objective 1” regions (i.e. those
where the GDP per head in purchasing power terms is below 75 % of the EU
average) should be on concrete investments in physical infrastructure rather
than on less tangible factors such as know-how or human capital. They forget
that a lack of innovation is actually one of the main deficits in the economies
of less-developed regions and countries. In many of the less prosperous Member
States, investment in R&D is below 1 per cent of...
In light of the Lisbon strategy, IPR has become more important for
companies competing with American companies. At the same time, there is a lack
of knowledge about how information on foreign IP rights may be obtained. The
common market is getting more intensive. Even smaller companies are more and
more active on foreign markets within...
Photographers and users of photographs face certain risks when
taking and publishing photographs. This article is an overview of the legal
principles applicable to taking photographs - for commercial purposes - that
feature copyright-protected works or trade marks. As most lawsuits are filed
against the users of photographic material,...
Patents are a policy instrument and their objective is to spur
innovation in an economy to a maximum beneficial level for the society.
Economic theory states that patents are a facilitator for the diffusion of
knowledge and innovation and, as such, they are an important element of
economic growth. However, recent studies have found that...
As the business landscape changes in Scotland and throughout Europe,
companies face the challenge of ensuring sustainable and profitable growth into
the 21st century. Increasingly, the competitiveness of businesses depends on
innovation and knowledge regardless of the sector. The real value in most
organisations lies in their key knowledge...
In March of this year, Simag, a Marseille-based company operating in
the optronics and image processing sector, patented a new technology called 3D
feel®. This technology allows walls, windows or furniture to become interactive
(“smart”). With a simple touch, they can become interactive and
display relevant information or images. ...
“Sit on the autowalker car, put your feet on the foot pads
and hold the steering wheel with two hands. Turn the steering wheel left and
right repeatedly and off you go AND no batteries are needed. YES, it's an
amazing new toy.”...
