AI & patents: why your smart model deserves smart protection

AI is no longer a thing of the future in the manufacturing industry; it is the standard. According to McKinsey, 40% of manufacturing companies now use AI models to detect bottlenecks early and reduce maintenance costs. Therefore, it is not surprising that the European Patent Office (EPO) has already granted more than 2,000 patents on AI technologies.

Innovation with AI offers companies enormous opportunities, but if AI is an integral part of your product, it is wise to consider how to protect this innovation. Applying for a patent can be an interesting step in this process. But how does it work exactly?

Marco Coolen, photo © Bart van Overbeeke

Patenting AI: What do you need to know?

The EPO has specific requirements for AI patents. You can't simply claim: “our AI does X and improves Y.” A vague description or general functionality is insufficient. If you want to protect your AI with a patent, you must meet several necessary conditions:

1. A clear technical description - Don't just describe what your AI does, but also how it works. Which techniques and algorithms do you use? How is the model trained?
2. A working example - An AI model must be demonstrably functional. That means you need a concrete example, including:
3. • Input and output variables
   • The training method
   • The intended result
3. Technical impact - AI applications can only be patented if they solve a technical problem. More efficient calculations or smart data analysis alone are not enough. The AI must, for example, improve a production process, reduce errors or make autonomous decisions that would otherwise not be possible.

Why AI patents are essential, especially now

AI is rapidly changing the manufacturing industry. Efficiency, predictive maintenance and automated processes are becoming increasingly commonplace. This means that competition for these innovations is increasing and companies must protect their technological edge in smart ways.

A good AI patent can provide:

✔️ A unique market position – Prevent competitors from copying your technology.

✔️ More investment value – Investors see patented AI technology as a valuable asset.

✔️ Strategic advantage – Ensure you are ahead in an increasingly competitive market.

Protect your innovation in time

With all these new AI possibilities, thinking about your intellectual property is more important than ever. AI solutions continue to develop, but a patent can protect your innovation and strengthen your position in the market.

So the question is not whether you should protect your AI, but how quickly you do so before someone else captures the idea.

AI is playing an increasingly important role in industry and the race to protect innovation is in full swing. If you don't want to be left behind, it is wise to check whether your AI technology can be patented. By taking action in time, you can ensure that your smart model also receives smart protection. Because in the world of AI, it's first come, first served.