Engineering & Software

Innovation in artificial intelligence, software, telecommunications, medical technology, automotive, aerospace, and energy is transforming industries, making strategic intellectual property protection more critical than ever. At De Clercq & Partners, our engineering team combines scientific expertise with deep patent knowledge, ensuring robust protection for pioneering technological advancements.

Our European patent attorneys, litigators, and technical experts, many with PhDs and industry experience, provide expert support in patent drafting, prosecution, opposition, and litigation at the EPO and national courts. We work closely with our chemistry and life sciences teams, offering seamless IP solutions across disciplines.

We assist multinational corporations, research institutions, startups, and universities in navigating complex patent landscapes and maximizing their IP value. Our partners hold key positions in professional organizations, ensuring we remain at the forefront of legal developments and best practices in the engineering and software sectors.

Our expertise in engineering includes

Software & Artificial Intelligence

Patenting AI-driven innovations, machine learning models, computer simulations, and software-based technologies.

Digital Communication & Telecommunications

Protecting advancements in 5G, IoT, communication protocols, and signal processing.

Medical Technology & Devices

Securing patents for medical imaging, diagnostics, AI-powered healthcare solutions, robotic-assisted procedures, surgical instruments, and surgical planning tools.

Electronics & Automation

Showing expertise in embedded systems, semiconductors, industrial automation, sensors, micro- and nano-electromechanical systems, and robotics.

Automotive & Aerospace

Handling patents for vehicle technology, aviation, metrology, space innovations, autonomous / self-driving systems, logistic solutions.

Renewables & Energy

Filing patents for battery technologies, energy storage and distribution systems, power management, wind turbine technology.

Mechanical Devices & Construction

Protecting gearboxes, clutches & transmissions, industrial machinery, civil engineering innovations, household devices, and consumer goods.

Textiles & Materials

Focusing on fibres, yarns, woven and non-woven textiles, surface technology, coatings, composites and nanomaterials.

Chemical Engineering & Metallurgy

Protecting reactor design, flow dynamics, printing technology, process engineering, energy optimisation, and control systems.

Want to know more about engineering & software?

Engineering & Software IP: Strategies, Challenges & Expertise

They have a proven record of consistently very knowledgeable and timely patent prosecution advice that is cost-effective. The depth and knowledge of the team is impressive.

IP STARS, Managing IP 2024/2025

With a strong track record in providing ‘diligence, availability and commitment,’ it is no wonder that De Clercq & Partners is heralded as the ‘go-to law firm for patent prosecution work in Europe’.

IAM Patent 100 2024

They are extremely professional. In particular, they send the right reminders at the right time and they are very efficient in translating my input into draft PCT demands or responses to Office Actions. Deadlines are always met and I do not worry about missing any as De Clercq & Partners efficiently manages the communication to receive my input in due course when this is required.

IP STARS, Managing IP 2023

The very dedicated and professional Jeffrey Gyi and Liesbet Paemen are applauded for their highly competent, efficient, excellent service and advice" and unique ability to unravel the most complex inventions.

IAM 1000 Recommended individuals 2024/2025

David Lesthaeghe is an excellent patent attorney with a fine understanding of strategic and tactical issues.

IP STARS, Managing IP 2024/2025