Fermilab Technology
In order for Fermilab to achieve these objectives equipment must be developed which is at the limits of today’s technology. Fermilab has expertise in the areas of accelerators, medical accelerators, cryogenics, superconductivity – particularly on an industrial scale, advanced computer systems with an emphasis on parallel processing, fast electronics, software, and control systems. We also have particle detector technology.
The activities include both formal activities like Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs), and less formal activities such as short and extended staff visits. Another possible approach to cooperative program is a Work for Others (WFO) project. The Loma Linda proton medical accelerator is just such an example done as a WFO project. With all of these activities Fermilab wants to cooperate with the private sector, not compete.
Invention reporting is the responsibility of the individual inventors. The technology transfer program for the Laboratory is coordinated by the ORTA in the Director’s Office. Members of the office serve as the laboratory patent and licensing offices.
The ORTA has a regular program of assessing new Fermilab technology. A Fermilab Application Assessment is prepared for each invention or software development that looks like it could be patented or copyrighted. This assessment system is the backbone of the assessment process and also provides important legal tracking. Federal law requires that the laboratory perform these assessments and forward them to DOE.
Goals
The broad goals of the technology transfer program at Fermilab are:
- Identify and assess transferable/commercializable technology within the Laboratory and maintain an information data base on the technology;
- manage and protect the intellectual property items that result from Laboratory technology development activities;
- identify matches between the technological strengths of the Laboratory and the technology needs of industry and of state and local government;
- plan and implement networking/outreach strategies such as the and establish linkages between Fermilab, as a technology source, and industrial firms capable of delivering technology-based products and services;
- maintain awareness and provide support and coordination for project-centered technology transfer activities such as CRADAs; and,
- establish and maintain awareness and cooperation with the technology transfer/commercialization efforts elsewhere within DOE and the Federal government as well as the state and local government.