The University of Toledo was among the top 100 universities in the country granted U.S. utility patents in 2022.
The National Academy of Inventors looked at calendar-year data provided by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to rank universities in a list published on Sept. 12.
Stephen Snider, associate vice president of UToledo’s Technology Transfer Office, said his office was pleased to see UToledo counted among the most prolific universities in the United States.
“This wouldn’t be possible without the support of the University’s faculty, staff and students,” he said. “We look forward to continuing to work with these innovators to protect, market and license novel technologies that will benefit society and improve the human condition.”
Utility patents granted last year represent a range of science, engineering and medical innovations.
UToledo’s newly patented inventions include a minimally invasive device to remove blood clots from veins and arteries, an injectable gel to promote bone regeneration following an injury, a composite filament for use in 3D printers, a technique to join aluminum plates or sheets and a system to improve the aerodynamic characteristics of aircraft that take off and land vertically.
Other inventions pertain to desalination, solar cells and cancer therapy, among other topics.
Utility patents, also referred to as “patents for invention,” are the most common type of patent issued by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. They are granted for new or improved products and processes, and prohibit other individuals or companies from making, using or selling an invention for up to 20 years from the date of the patent application.
The National Academy of Inventors has published a list of worldwide universities granted U.S. utility patents since 2013. This is the first year the academy has also published a national list.
UToledo is credited with 11 utility patents in 2022.
That number has been consistently higher in recent years, with 22 utility patents granted in 2021, 18 in 2020, 20 in 2019, 17 in 2018 and 25 in 2017.
UToledo has been granted 14 utility patents so far in 2023.
