The European Patent Office (EPO) is currently leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) in various capacities, including classification, search functions, and machine translation. A forthcoming pilot program aims to illustrate AI's potential in aiding the preparation of minutes during oral proceedings held by examining and opposition divisions. By 2025, a select group of examiners will utilize AI technology to enhance the quality and timeliness of these minutes, ensuring they are promptly delivered to involved parties. To facilitate this initiative, all oral proceedings will be comprehensively audio recorded; however, these recordings will strictly serve the purpose of assisting in minute preparation and will be deleted once the minutes are distributed. Importantly, the responsibility for the content of the minutes will rest entirely with the respective divisions, upholding a human-centered approach. Following the pilot's conclusion at the end of 2025, and contingent upon a thorough evaluation of its effectiveness, the integration of AI-assisted minute preparation and audio recording will gradually extend to all oral proceedings across examining and opposition divisions, as well as the Receiving Section and the Legal Division. The EPO's commitment to enhancing the patent granting process through AI and machine learning is evident in its strategic initiatives. By expanding the application of AI technologies within the patent framework, while adhering to a human-centric methodology, the EPO aims to bolster both quality and efficiency. This progressive approach aligns with the organization’s Strategic Plan 2028, reflecting a dedication to embracing the ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence to further improve operational processes in the patent landscape.
This news is summarized and processed by the IP Topics artificial intelligence algorithm.
Read the full article on the original webpage: https://www.epo.org/en/news-events/news/minutes-oral-proceedings-be-prepared-assistance-ai
The cover image belongs to the source website and is used as an integral part of the summary of the reference article.