IPO The invention in question relates to a data approvals system and method for managing data during the process of approving a transaction in a computerized system. The applicants argued that the invention provides a flexible and more reliable computer which functions at a high level of architecture above low level data handling applications and that this makes a technical contribution to the operation of a computer. The Hearing Officer applied the four point ‘Aerotel/Macrossan’ test, as modified by Re. Symbian, and took account of the ‘signposts’ for determining technical contribution detailed in Re. ATandT Knowledge Ventures and CVON Innovation’s Ltd. He found that the invention did not provide an impact on the technical infrastructure of the computer and therefore would not make a computer technically more flexible or more reliable. He held that the invention lay solely in the field of excluded subject matter and refused the application as relating to a computer program, as such, under section 1(2) of the Act.
Citations:
[2011] UKIntelP o15711, O/157/11
Links:
Jurisdiction:
England and Wales
Intellectual Property
Updated: 23 October 2022; Ref: scu.458327