Our firm has patent attorneys with expertise in IT, electronics, machinery, and chemistry. Additionally, we specialize in cutting-edge technology fields such as generative AI, metaverse, NFTs, blockchain, and gaming.

We provide not only consultation on patent applications, patent searches, evaluations, and warning responses but also support for intellectual property strategies (patent strategies). Furthermore, our lawyers and patent attorneys work closely together, enabling us to provide high-quality legal services in a seamless, one-stop manner.

What is a Patent?

A patent is a right that protects highly unique technologies and ideas.
Acquiring a patent provides the following benefits:

・Prevents competitors from copying unique features of your products and services (functions, UI, business models), creating a strong entry barrier.
・Reduces price competition in bidding situations.
・Facilitates collaboration and alliances.
・Enhances branding (showcases technical expertise externally, improves trust from customers).
・Creates opportunities for licensing revenue.

Why Are Patents Important?

With the widespread adoption of the internet, popular products and services are easily copied by competitors. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups, competing against large corporations that have significant capital can be incredibly challenging.

However, patents provide a means for SMEs and startups to counter large corporations. Since patent infringement can result in penalties such as damages, sales injunctions, and criminal charges, large companies—especially those with strict compliance standards—tend to be cautious about violating patents.

By obtaining a patent, you can protect your unique products, services, and business models.
For example, if you develop an innovative business model, a so-called “business model patent” can protect it from being copied by competitors. Famous examples of business model patents include Amazon’s “One-Click Patent” and Pepper Food Service’s (Ikinari! Steak) “Steak Serving Method” patent. Many companies are unaware that patents can protect business models.

Another example is patenting a highly unique UI (user interface). For instance, PayPay has patented its payment UI (a screen rotation animation during transactions), and Niconico Video has patented its scrolling comment UI (where comments move from right to left). Protecting unique UI elements with patents can create a strong competitive advantage.
Furthermore, obtaining patents for unique business models, UI, features, and technologies allows companies to reduce price competition, build trust with customers, and establish dominance in their industries.

Supporting Patent Strategies (IP Strategies)

Our firm not only assists with patent applications but also specializes in acquiring strategic patents that create barriers for competitors, effectively supporting companies in their patent strategies (IP strategies). Therefore, we can assist companies in the following situations:

・Companies that have never obtained a patent before and need consulting from scratch.
・Businesses looking for patents that create strong entry barriers rather than just obtaining patents for the sake of it.
・Companies dissatisfied with their current patent firms (lack of strategic proposals).
・Startups launching new businesses and aiming to establish a competitive advantage (entry barrier).

If you are in any of these situations, feel free to contact us for consultation.