For centuries, ceramic materials were used exclusively for tableware and building materials. In the mid-19th century, technical development in refractories and abrasives enabled the development of modern metallurgy and glass industries and became the first industrial application for ceramics.

When the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) adopted the America Invents Act (AIA) “first-to-file” system on March 16, the following scenarios became reality.

My daughter recently introduced me to the wonders of Internet radio and it’s official—I’m hooked. At the risk of dating myself, let me just say the ’80s channel is getting a lot of play in my office. I’m amazed that I know the lyrics of so many of these songs, most of which I’d forgotten even existed. But I digress.

Over the years, glass building components such as windows have evolved from simply providing a transparent barrier against the outside environment to fundamentally altering design aesthetics and facilitating energy conservation through the reduction of energy and operating costs.

Our current economic situation is kind of like an impossibly extended March; things are starting to get better, but the progress is slow and the winter was so bad that it’s hard to imagine that spring is coming.

On March 16, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) will switch from the current “first-to-invent” system to a “first-to-file” system.

As we enter 2013, ceramic manufacturers are more focused than ever on finding ways to improve their business.

An advanced ceramic materials manufacturer acts as a corporate model for the VOW Act of 2011.