算法的专利保护:何以可能?以何实现?

Patent Protection of Algorithms:Why is it possible?How to achieve it?

算法作为一种有价值的信息,可以纳入知识产权的客体范畴。结合算法的特征与不同保护模式的优劣,“方法发明”的专利模式能为算法提供更优保护。在专利法语境下,由于算法与数学规则和人类思维联系密切,容易被视为是智力活动的规则和方法而被排除在专利法之外。人工智能技术的发展,算法得以与具体实施领域相结合,能够以技术手段解决相关技术问题表现技术效果,从而构成专利法上的技术方案。2020年2月份修改的《专利审查指南》明确包含算法特征的发明在满足专利审查基准的前提下,能够被授予专利权。回顾历史,《专利审查指南》的历次修改印证了技术发展背景下专利权保护范围不断扩大的事实。面对新技术的挑战,作为部门规章的《专利审查指南》应当受到更多的重视与关注。

As a kind of valuable information,algorithm can be included in the object category of intellectual property.Combining the characteristics of the algorithm with the advantages and disadvantages of different protection modes,the patent model of"method invention"can provide better protection for the algorithm.In the context of patent French,because algorithms are closely related to mathematical rules and human thinking,they are easily regarded as rules and methods of intellectual activity and are excluded from patent law.With the development of artificial intelligence technology,algorithms can be combined with specific implementation areas,and technical means can be used to solve related technical problems to express technical effects,thereby forming a technical solution in the patent law.The"Patent Examination Guidelines"revised in February 2020 clarified that inventions containing algorithmic features can be granted patent rights on the premise that they meet the patent examination criteria.Looking back at history,the previous revisions of the"Patent Examination Guidelines"confirm the fact that the scope of patent protection continues to expand in the context of technological development.Facing the challenges of new technologies,the"Patent Examination Guidelines"as departmental regulations should receive more attention and attention.