The European Patent Office (EPO) has some great, free online e-courses, one of which (available here) is on evaluating inventive step using the problem-solution approach (PSA). The PSA is set out in the EPO’s Guidelines For Examination, Part G-VII, 5 (available here). This e-course discusses inventive step, explains the PSA, and includes an exercise to allow you to test your understanding, and application, of the PSA. The e-course is a great read for anyone looking to learn about, or refresh on, the PSA, whether for application in day-to-day practice before the EPO or in the European Qualifying Examination (EQE).
Russell IP has significant experience in patent prosecution work before the EPO and favours thorough, by-the-book responses using the PSA in most cases. If you’re a patent-savvy business looking for help with European (EP) patent prosecution work, get in touch with Russell IP here.
The information above is for general interest and information only and does not constitute legal advice.
