A patent classification system is a standardized method used by patent offices...
Welcome to the Smit & Van Wyk blog, where you’ll find a wealth of expert insights and practical information on trademarks, patents, and copyright. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, inventor, or creative professional, our articles are here to help you navigate the world of intellectual property with clarity and confidence.
How Patent Families Protect Your Invention Worldwide
A patent family refers to a group of patents registered in several countries...
Who is the Inventor?
The term “inventor” is not explicitly defined in the South African Patents...
Patent Examination and Enforceable Rights in South Africa
South Africa is a non-examining country, which means that patent applications...
5 Reasons Why You Should Patent Your Idea
If you have an idea that you believe could revolutionize an industry or...
South African Complete Patent
The second step is to file a complete patent application within 12 months of...
Provisional Patent Application
The first step is to file a South African provisional patent application for...
Central African Republic Patents
International and Regional Systems: Paris Convention PCT OAPI Member of OAPI,...
Cameroon Patents
International and Regional Systems: Paris Convention PCT OAPI Member of OAPI,...
Burkina Faso Patents
International and Regional Systems: Paris Convention PCT OAPI Member of OAPI,...
Benin Patents
International and Regional Systems: Paris Convention PCT OAPI Member of OAPI,...
South Sudan
There is currently no legislation in terms of Industrial Property in South...
Sudan
Smit & Van Wyk assists with the protection of Intellectual Property...
Patent and Design renewal deadlines in South Africa
Failure to have a thorough understanding of renewal fee deadlines can have...
How to Patent Mobile Apps
Traditional Protection of Mobile Apps The source code, on-screen layout and...
Patent Portfolio Management Tips for Inventors
A patent portfolio refers to the collection of patents owned by an individual,...
Patent Thickets and their Impact on Competition
The term patent thicket describes the complex web of patents that an inventor...
Patent Caveat and its Historical Role in Intellectual Property
A patent caveat was a form of legal document filed with the United States...
Patent drawing requirements for a successful Patent Application
A patent drawing forms an integral part of a patent application, serving to...
South Africa Patent Laws
South Africa Patent Laws favour the usage of qualified Patent Attorneys even...
Complete Patent application in South Africa
Obtaining a patent in South Africa involves a two-step process, with the steps...
Patent Applications in South Africa
Registering a new invention is an important step in protecting your...
Patent Applications in South Africa
When submitting a patent application in South Africa, several forms must be...
Patent Registration in South Africa
Patent registrations may be granted to any invention that is new in all...
When Trade Secrets exist
When Trade Secrets exist the holder of the trade secret is nevertheless...