Here's your chance to make a
collapsible plane or handheld laser flashlight.
As part of an initiative to grow some new high-tech businesses, NASA is
providing startups the opportunity to license its technologies without paying
any up-front costs. Businesses will be able to choose from a portfolio spanning
over 1,200 patents, which
in turn is divided into 15 categories. This includes technologies such as multi-purpose
humanoid robots, handheld laser torches,
and even collapsible
aeroplanes.
“The Startup NASA initiative leverages the results of our cutting-edge
research and development so entrepreneurs can take that research — and some risks
— to create new products and new services," said NASA's chief technologist
David Miller in a press release.
Naturally, there are caveats tied to this offer. First, the licences aren't exclusive, although NASA is apparently open to discussion. Second, the patents are only valid for startups intending to commercialise NASA technologies. While companies are not required to pay an initial licensing fee or minimum fees for three years, those who successfully begin selling a product will be expected to pay standard net royalties.
Naturally, there are caveats tied to this offer. First, the licences aren't exclusive, although NASA is apparently open to discussion. Second, the patents are only valid for startups intending to commercialise NASA technologies. While companies are not required to pay an initial licensing fee or minimum fees for three years, those who successfully begin selling a product will be expected to pay standard net royalties.
Ion thrusters, nuclear rockets, and other in-space propulsion tech being
looked at.
Startup NASA (that's the name of the initiative) represents the government
agency's latest attempt to share its research with the public. In the past, it auctioned 12 of its
nanotech patents, and has also sold exclusive licences to
companies like DynaDX, which then used the technology to construct medical
devices for diagnosing strokes and monitoring treatment in dementia
patients.
Regardless of whether you intend to license one of the patents or not, the
repository is absolutely fascinating to explore. Not only does it contain
downloadable fact sheets, it also hosts information on the possible benefits
and applications on ideas like this nitrogen oxide
emission control system.
This post originated on Ars Technica UK
Ars technicaby Cassandra Khaw
(UK) - Oct 9, 2015 3:42pm CEST
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