Using Patents To Identify Emerging Fields In Biomedical Engineering

Patents are a rich source of information for educating students on emerging fields in biomedical engineering. Since 80% of the information in patents is not published elsewhere, faculty should seriously consider including patent instruction in their courses. Patents may be the first and only place that innovations are detailed. Protecting patent rights may preclude presenting and publishing cutting edge information in journal articles and conference papers. This paper covers U.S. issued patents and published applications as well as world patents and applications. Free databases available on the World Wide Web will be emphasized. Classification systems that are discussed include United States, International, and European. Known inventors and assignees are also discussed. Search examples are shown.