Innovation in specific technology areas is progressing fast at the moment and is hard to predict. Information on the status of development of a technology in the area of technology is essential, for example for R&D managers and potential investors.

Evidence of national activities in a particular technology area can be obtained by examining the patents registered. These patents are the result of various strategies. Thus one can get an idea of the attractiveness of the technology based on the trends as compared to other nations and markets. It does not make sense, however, to make a direct inference as to innovative ability from the data as it stands.

It is clear from the following trends that the significance of medical technology in Switzerland in comparison with France, Germany and the UK is generally on the rise. This suggests that the medical technology market in Switzerland, the innovation activity of the various enterprises and the resultant need for protection will be given greater attention.

Trends of patents in Switzerland - overview

These trends show the changes in the individual areas of technology compared with the average development in the following countries: France, Germany, Switzerland, UK, US and Japan.

These trend charts were provided by the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property. Another source for information on innovation trends is the section on trend charts on the Cordis' website.