{"id":2206425,"date":"2024-09-09T18:55:51","date_gmt":"2024-09-09T09:55:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/koreapro.org\/?p=2206425"},"modified":"2024-09-10T16:36:03","modified_gmt":"2024-09-10T07:36:03","slug":"south-koreas-patent-sharing-program-gives-smes-a-boost-but-big-firms-loom-large","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/koreapro.org\/2024\/09\/south-koreas-patent-sharing-program-gives-smes-a-boost-but-big-firms-loom-large\/","title":{"rendered":"South Korea\u2019s patent sharing program gives SMEs a boost but big firms loom large"},"content":{"rendered":"
South Korea <\/span>announced<\/span><\/a> the release of 490 energy-related patents through its annual patent-sharing program on Monday, aiming to bolster the technological capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by offering them free access to unused patents held by public energy enterprises.<\/span><\/p>\n While this initiative offers significant opportunities for South Korean SMEs, they will likely continue to face considerable challenges in integrating these technologies and competing with larger firms.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n PATENT SHARING PROGRAM OVERVIEW<\/b><\/p>\n The patent-sharing program, launched in 2013, was designed to enhance SMEs\u2019 competitiveness by giving them free access to dormant technologies owned by large corporations and public institutions.<\/span><\/p>\n This year, 11 public energy firms have made 490 patents available, covering a range of technologies related to liquefied natural gas (LNG) systems, hydrogen energy and environmental, social and governance (ESG) compliance.<\/span><\/p>\n While not cutting-edge technology, SMEs will likely find them helpful in improving efficiency, safety and regulatory compliance. For instance, the LNG charging system, which relies on <\/span>pressure differentials<\/span><\/a> instead of pumps, could reduce energy consumption and operational costs. This is particularly appealing to SMEs working with tight margins.<\/span><\/p>\n Other patents, such as a safety device for replacing overloaded switches \u2014 a type of circuit breaker \u2014 can prevent accidents in power distribution.<\/span><\/p>\n Additionally, SMEs can use hydrogen membrane technology to improve the efficiency of hydrogen production, particularly through the process of water electrolysis.<\/span><\/p>\n The program\u2019s emphasis on proven and tested technologies offers SMEs an advantage in sectors where efficiency and safety are crucial. However, SMEs will likely continue to face substantial technological integration challenges.<\/span><\/p>\n