Marks Jamaica’s first WIPO PCT patent acquisition
THE UNIVERSITY of Technology, Jamaica has hailed the success of its alumnus – innovators of a bacteria-killing device, Xermosol, who won the 6th UTech, Jamaica Business Model Competition in 2019 – on their latest achievement of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) patent approval.
The Xermosol self-sanitising door handle is a revolutionary blend of intelligent features, cutting-edge technology, and user-friendly design. It offers an essential solution for good hygiene standards by utilising UVC radiation technology to eliminate harmful pathogens found on door handles. This device seamlessly integrates as a replacement or add-on to doors. The ergonomically designed door handle features an easy-to-install design and energy-efficient architecture that reduces the risk of pathogen transmission through the touch of door handles.
In July 2023, Xermosol Supplies Ltd took a significant step towards protecting its innovations by applying to WIPO for patent approval under the PCT. After diligent efforts, the team achieved patent approval on February 19, 2024.
Filing a WIPO application under the PCT enables applicants to concurrently pursue the protection of their invention across multiple territories of the 157 signatory countries, including Jamaica. This approval grants protection for 30 months in all 157 countries under the treaty and facilitates a smooth transition for patent applications within individual jurisdictions. The team achieved uncontested endorsement across all 17 invention claims, earning commendation for novelty, inventive steps, and industrial application. Anticipated for publication in January 2025, the patent marks a significant milestone in their innovative journey. Additionally, this marks Jamaica’s first WIPO PCT patent acquisition.
INVALUABLE SUPPORT
A release from the institution notes that the team’s journey at UTech, Jamaica, since August 2018, ‘was enriched by the support received through several schools and colleges, notably the Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics, and Leadership, the School of Engineering, and the College of Health Sciences’.
Expressing appreciation for the extensive collaboration with local and international professionals, including several medical experts and engineers, the team also extended gratitude to UTech, Jamaica for the steadfast support of their idea in its early stages, the university’s stakeholders, and Dr Lisa Scarlett for her invaluable support. They expressed appreciation for the guidance received from professionals at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI), notably the Chief of Medicine, Dr Carl Bruce, and the dedicated doctors at the microbiology laboratory, including Professor Nicholson, Dr Jerome Walker, Dr Camille-Ann Thoms-Rodriguez, and Senior Medical Officer at the Kingston Public Hospital, Dr Natalie Whylie.
Special thanks was also extended to the Development Bank of Jamaica, whose generous J$4 million grant facilitated the filing process and significantly contributed to the success of the business venture.
The Xermosol team, comprising Rayvon Stewart, former student of UTech, Jamaica, Kirkland Rowe, senior lecturer, School of Engineering, and Novelette Cooke, lecturer, Joan Duncan School of Entrepreneurship, Ethics, and Leadership, stands as the core holders of the patent rights. Additionally, the invaluable contributions of other team members have been instrumental in achieving this milestone. These include Andre Craig, serving as the product manager; Kevoy Smith, taking on the role of project manager; and Keisha Harriott-Harvey, contributing expertise in legal, research, and development.
Jamaica’s first WIPO PCT patent acquisition
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