The Latest from Michelson IP

Bobba’s failed pitch on “Dragon’s Den” sparked a conversation about cultural appropriation in bubble tea, highlighting the disconnect between commercialization and Taiwanese heritage. This incident is tied to the evolving role of intellectual property laws in safeguarding traditional knowledge and cultural identities.

In 2024, the Michelson Intellectual Property Institute (MIPI) made significant strides in democratizing IP education, expanding our impact through global engagement, K-12 initiatives, and partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The year also saw the launch of a legal fellowship program and the spotlighting of young inventors.

Three fashion designers have filed a lawsuit against Shein, accusing the retailer of using algorithms to steal their designs and seeking damages under the RICO Act. The case, which could set a precedent for IP protection in fashion, challenges Shein’s use of technology for widespread copyright infringement.

Calistoga High’s Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam joined us to showcase their innovative journey, creating patent-pending SMART wearable cooling devices to assist community members affected by heat. Through mentorship and collaboration, students like Beatrix and Elias gained valuable experience in the patent process and personal growth.

Join us this October as we celebrate IP Awareness Month, highlighting the vital role of intellectual property in fostering innovation and creativity among California’s youth. Through engaging events and inspiring stories from young inventors, we aim to raise awareness about the significance of IP in our economy and society.

Calistoga High School students have developed innovative tools to support wildland firefighters and agricultural workers, driven by a desire to give back to their community. Through the Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams program, these young inventors are not only gaining valuable skills but also unlocking their potential for future careers in engineering and technology.

Trademarks often are great ways to protect a brand’s identity and prevent others from cashing in on its success. When a traditional food is turned into a commodity and capitalized upon, how does that impact the culture and small businesses? 

Explore how initiatives such as The Michelson Institute for Intellectual Property’s HBCU IP Futures Collaborative are equipping Historically Black Colleges and Universities with vital IP education, empowering students to innovate and thrive. Download the Impact Report to see how investing in IP can drive inclusive growth and opportunity in underserved communities.

Join us at the 2024 UNCF UNITE Conference! Michelson IP celebrates UNCF’s 80th anniversary and presents the HBCU Futures Collaborative Impact Report. Meet our legal fellow, Elleyse Garrett, and attend our panel on closing the equity gap in research funding.

The Nike vs. StockX legal battle over NFTs in sports could redefine digital ownership and IP rights in blockchain. This case has significant implications for how brands and marketplaces navigate trademark issues in the burgeoning NFT landscape.

Cultured meat, also known as lab-grown meat, is revolutionizing food technology by addressing global challenges such as food insecurity and environmental sustainability. Intellectual property strategies, crucial for protecting innovations in cell culturing methods and product development, play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable food solutions.

Dive into the key highlights and illuminating discussions from the recent Global IP conference hosted by Georgia State University College of Law. Discover how experts from around the world are shaping the future of intellectual property through education, collaboration, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Shredded wheat cereal, a staple in many households, has a rich history tied to a landmark Supreme Court case over its intellectual property. Discover how Kellogg’s and the National Biscuit Company battled over patents and trademarks, shaping the future of this iconic breakfast food.

During the Cold War, the term “Star Wars” was co-opted to describe the Reagan Administration’s Strategic Defense Initiative, prompting a Lucasfilm lawsuit to protect its trademark. This legal battle underscored the challenges of intellectual property rights when popular culture and politics intersect.

Meet Whitley Crawford, our new Senior Program Coordinator! With a rich background in digital marketing and a passion for demystifying IP rights, Whitley is poised to revolutionize IP education. Join us in welcoming her!

Discover the pioneering Arab American inventors shaping our world! From Dr. Michael DeBakey’s groundbreaking medical innovations to Taher Elgamal’s SSL protocol securing online transactions, explore the impactful contributions of Arab Americans like Farouk El-Baz, Rana El Kaliouby, and Anthony Fadell.

Mattel v. MGA is more than just a legal battle over Bratz dolls; it’s a cautionary tale that highlights the importance of trade secrets and IP rights—both when working for an employer and when considering the sale of any idea. 

During Women’s History Month, let’s celebrate some of the remarkable women leaders in business who have harnessed IP to build and protect their businesses: Sara Blakely’s shapewear, Pinky Cole, and Sherrese Clarke Soares.

Sneakers are incredibly popular these days, both as urban streetwear and as financial assets. Individuals known as “sneakerheads” often collect, trade, or resell rare sneakers. Similarly, auction houses, such as Sotheby’s, as well as online marketplaces including...

The legal battle between Apple and Masimo over the Apple Watch blood oxygen sensor is a tale of innovation, intellectual property (IP) rights, and the strategic maneuvers of a tech titan.  Learn how this may open a broader dialogue on the conduct of large corporations when it comes to the IP rights of smaller entities. 

Get to know members of the HBCUs IP Futures Collaborative who are part of our new cohort of  Educators in Residence, a group of selected faculty who have worked tirelessly to support advancing IP literacy efforts at community colleges across the country.

What are dating app patents? Is “swipe right” patented? Will AI bring new subject matter with intellectual property protections? Explore these questions and more this Valentine’s Day!

Stu Price’s tattoo in “The Hangover Part II,” a not-so-subtle nod to Mike Tyson’s famous ink, sparked a legal battle just before the movie’s release. The tale is more than just a Hollywood anecdote, it’s a quirky reminder of the dance between IP rights, fair use, and creative liberties taken in the film industry.