Expert Talk on Intellectual Property Rights in Construction Promoting Innovation and Creativity

On 16th August 2024, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized an “Expert Talk on Intellectual Property Rights in Construction Promoting Innovation and Creativity”. The resource person for the program was Dr.R.Prem Ananth, IIC Convenor, Assistant Professor, Department of ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. 43 civil engineering students and 2 staff members attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

During the session, the resource person provided a comprehensive overview of intellectual property (IP) and its pivotal role in the construction industry. He began the session by defining the key concepts related to IP, including patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets. He also explained how these IP rights serve as tools for protecting innovations, which are crucial in a competitive and rapidly evolving field like construction. The resource person highlighted several case studies where IP protection led to significant advancements and competitive advantages in the construction sector. He emphasized that patents can safeguard new construction methods and technologies, while copyrights protect architectural designs and engineering drawings. Trademarks, on the other hand, helps to establish and protect brand identity and reputation in the market.

Furthermore, he discussed the benefits of IP rights in fostering a culture of innovation. By securing IP, companies can confidently invest in research and development, knowing that their innovations are legally protected from infringement. This protection not only stimulates further creativity but also enhances the overall quality and safety of construction practices. The program concluded with a lively Q&A session where students actively engaged with him, raising questions about the practical applications of IP rights in their future careers.