After having graduated from his study at the TU/e Eindhoven in 1998, Marco entered into service at Philips. In 2003, he successfully finished his MBA, after which he filled different technical and commercial management positions at Philips and Océ. Since September 2013, he has been working at AOMB as a patent attorney. He is registered as a Dutch and European Patent attorney since 2017. On IO+, he shares his knowledge on the world of patents. How do they work, why are they important, but also: when do they lose their usefulness?
In the mechanical engineering industry, patents are not just a perk, but a crucial factor that can make the difference between mediocre growth and exponential expansion. The numbers don't lie: mechanical engineering companies that patent their innovations see significantly stronger growth in their exports than those without patents. This emphasizes how important it is to invest early in research and development (R&D) and protect the results with patents.
Patents give mechanical engineering companies a unique position in the marketplace. They protect new technologies and processes, allowing companies to maintain and expand their competitive advantage. In a world where technology advances at lightning speed, a well-protected patent portfolio can distinguish between market leadership and being left behind.
New markets
Patenting companies are seeing such strong growth in their exports because they are better able to capitalize on international market opportunities. With patents in their pockets, these companies can enter new markets with confidence, knowing that their technologies are protected from copying and competition. This creates a more stable and broader market, directly contributing to the company's growth.
In addition, patents allow companies to enter into partnerships and licenses, which can, in turn, provide additional revenue and growth opportunities. In the mechanical engineering industry, where the development of new technologies often involves high costs and even higher risks, it is essential to exploit every possible advantage. Patents not only provide legal protection but also act as a strategic tool that allows companies to maximize the monetization of their innovations.
Strategic approach
For mechanical engineering companies looking to grow, investing in R&D early in the development process and protecting their innovations with patents is critical. This requires a strategic approach, where companies consider not only the technical feasibility of their inventions but also the market opportunities and potential risks. By patenting their innovations, companies can guard against competition and strengthen their position in the global marketplace.
Moreover, patenting companies often have greater confidence from investors, who want to invest their money in companies with robust, protected technologies. This can facilitate access to capital, essential for further growth and internationalization.
In short, for mechanical engineering companies looking to accelerate their growth and strengthen their position in the global market, it is vital to invest in R&D and protect their innovations with patents. These protected technologies not only provide a competitive advantage but also open the door to new markets and partnerships. In an industry where technological innovation is the key to success, patents are the lever companies need to reach and exploit their full potential.