It was an honor to welcome Vaishali Udupa, USPTO Commissioner for Patents, to our luncheon last week on April 6, in conjunction with the The Honorable Nancy F. Atlas Intellectual Property American Inn of Court. As a community of IP professionals, we were thrilled to have the opportunity to hear from Commissioner Udupa on the latest developments and initiatives at the USPTO.

Commissioner Udupa shared valuable insights on the USPTO's efforts to improve patent quality and enhance the overall patent examination process. She also discussed the agency's commitment to increasing diversity and inclusion in the field of IP.

It was an excellent opportunity for the HIPLA members to engage with Commissioner Udupa and learn about the USPTO's efforts to promote innovation and strengthen the nation's intellectual property system. We are grateful for her time and insight and look forward to continuing our collaboration with the USPTO.

Thank you, Commissioner Udupa, for your visit and for your ongoing dedication to advancing the field of intellectual property.

HIPLA filed an amicus brief in American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. v. Neapco Holdings LLC et al.  In American Axle, the issue presented was whether the patent-in-suit, drawn to a mechanical product—a drive shaft with reduced vibration—was patent-eligible because it implemented a law of nature.  HIPLA’s amicus brief is in support of petitioner American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc., and can be downloaded here.