Naval Surface Warfare Center, Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD) recently hosted a Chief Technology Office (CTO) Professional Development Seminar on the topic of “Unlocking Innovation, Patents, and Intellectual Property.” The seminar, held on March 21, 2024, aimed to educate attendees on the history of patents and intellectual property, how it relates to the work done at NSWCPD, and how to generate patents based on workforce ideas.
Dr. Steve Mastro, Deputy Chief Technology Officer, and Patent Counsel Mark Rosen were among the presenters at the one-hour session. Dr. Mastro highlighted Philadelphia’s tradition of innovative thinking and securing patents, dating back to the Continental Navy’s need for sails and ships. He emphasized the importance of understanding patents and intellectual property in driving innovation and addressing fleet needs.
Over the years, NSWCPD has been awarded 139 patents, with 21 patents granted in the past five years. These patents cover a wide range of inventions, from flow control devices for turbomachines to measurement systems for testing materials. Dr. Mastro encouraged attendees to consider patenting their ideas, as it not only benefits the Navy but also the individual inventors and the organization as a whole.
Mark Rosen discussed the patent process and the criteria for granting patents, emphasizing the importance of new and useful inventions within the boundaries set by U.S. patent laws. He highlighted the role of patents in fueling NSWCPD’s mission, leading to technology transfer and commercial use agreements.
The seminar concluded with a reminder that innovation and inventive thinking are essential to NSWCPD’s mission and the Navy as a whole. By securing patents and intellectual property rights, NSWCPD can continue to drive technological advancements and benefit both the Navy and the American citizens.
