Leveraging Patent Analysis for Innovative Smart Water Grid Solutions

Abstract

A "smart water grid" refers to the application of advanced technologies to water distribution systems, aiming to improve their efficiency, sustainability, and resilience. Smart water grids are a combination of the internet of things and information and communications technologies that aim to improve the monitoring, management, and efficiency of water distribution systems. These systems involve the use of sensors, data transmission, and system controls to address various challenges such as water leaks, overuse, quality issues, and responses to droughts and natural disasters. The development of smart water grids faces barriers, but there are solutions being explored to overcome these challenges.

Inventions, through patents, could propose thousands of solutions to such barriers and problems in this area. Patent analysis, as a powerful tool for technology monitoring, can be leveraged for patent inspiration in several ways, such as identifying emerging technologies and trends, studying competitor strategies, leveraging prior innovation, and so on.

In this study, a patent analysis related to smart water grids is proposed. Based on the jurisdictions, classifications, and applicants, an overview is given by answering specific questions, such as those relating to the patterns of patenting for smart water grids: who files patent applications, where, and what is filed?

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