The scenario of the registry of embedded software in Brazil

Abstract

Every year, the electronics industry launches thousands of embedded devices, with different shapes and designs. The software used by these devices, called embedded software or firmware, consists of a set of operating instructions embedded in the hardwareof these devices, whose function is to establish communication between their various interfaces. Embedded software accounts for most of the time and cost spent on embedded systems projects due to their complexity, flexibility, and changes throughout the project. The development of embedded software involves the use of modern programming techniques, such as: software reuse and the use of ready code libraries. The use of these techniques significantly reduces the time and costs of the projects, but causes a lot of controversy regarding the copyright infringement of the owners of these codes reused in the projects. In this context, the objective of this article was to analyze the applications for registration of embedded software deposited in Brazil in the database of the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI), in order to identify the current scenario of intellectual protection of this type of software in the country. The data collection included the use of keywords inserted in the field referring to the "title of the program" of said database. The keywords used in the search were: embedded software, embedded software, embedded system, embedded device and firmware. According to the results obtained, 44 applications for embedded software were deposited in the INPI database, of which 36% were deposited by educational and research institutions. The largest depositors of embedded software belong to the telecommunications area, with 34% of deposits made. Currently, 68% of the applications for registration of embedded software deposited with INPI have been granted. The other 32% are still waiting for your registration.