How to show lack of enablement when defending against a patent infringement claim

Posted by Frederic Douglas | Apr 13, 2023 | 0 Comments

If you are accused of infringing a patent, one of the defenses you can raise is that the patent is invalid. One way to invalidate a patent is to show that it lacks enablement. Enablement requires the patent specification to provide enough information to allow one skilled in the art to make and use the invention without undue experimentation.

There are two main ways to show a lack of enablement:

  1. Show that the patent specification does not provide enough information to make and use the invention.
  2. Show that the information in the patent specification is not sufficient to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention without undue experimentation.

To show that the patent specification does not provide enough information to make and use the invention, you can look for gaps or omissions in the specification. For example, if the specification does not provide enough detail about how to make or use the invention, or if it does not provide enough information about the properties of the invention, you may be able to show that the patent is invalid for lack of enablement.

To show that the information in the patent specification is not sufficient to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention without undue experimentation, you can look for evidence that the invention is difficult or time-consuming to make or use. For example, if the invention requires the use of specialized equipment or materials or a complex manufacturing process, you may be able to show that the patent is invalid for lack of enablement.

If you are accused of infringing a patent, speaking with an experienced patent attorney is important to discuss your options. An attorney can help you evaluate the validity of the patent and determine whether you have a viable defense to the infringement claim.

Here are some additional tips for showing a lack of enablement:

  1. Focus on the specific claims that you are accused of infringing.
  2. Identify the specific information that is missing from the patent specification.
  3. Provide evidence that the missing information is necessary to make and use the invention.
  4. Show that the missing information is not readily available to one skilled in the art.
  5. Be prepared to discuss the technical details of the invention with the court.

Conclusion

Showing a lack of enablement can be a complex and challenging task. However, if you can successfully invalidate a patent, you may be able to avoid infringement liability. If you are accused of infringing a patent, speaking with an experienced patent attorney is important to discuss your options.

About the Author

Frederic Douglas

Frederic M. Douglas is an attorney practicing IP litigation. (949) 293-0442 @PhredDouglas In 1996, Mr. Douglas graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering. In 1999, he received his Juris Doctorate degree from the University of...

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