Technologies and Patents for Restoring Cultural Heritage

 

 In the winter of the year before last, a serious incident occurred in Korea when the wall of Gyeongbok Palace—one of the country's most treasured national treasures—was vandalized with spray paint. Fortunately, thanks to the swift response of the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage and other relevant agencies and researchers, it was quickly and thoroughly restored. This restoration was made possible by the application of various technologies and tools specifically designed for cultural heritage preservation.

Wall of Gyeongbok Palace vandalized with spray paint
<source : imbc.com, https://imnews.imbc.com/news/2023/society/article/6553690_36126.html> 

Recently, there has been a noticeable increase in damage to cultural heritage due to factors such as increased tourist activity, wildfires, and construction projects. This highlights the growing need for effective restoration technologies and tools. In this issue, we will explore the technologies and patents that help restore the tangible history embedded in our cultural heritage.

 Meticulous Cleaning: The First Step in Restoration

 The foundation of restoring excavated cultural artifacts or relics lies in careful cleaning. Most importantly, dirt and soil must be removed thoroughly without damaging the object. Surprisingly, until recently, commercially available cleaning brushes were still being used for this purpose. However, the bristle lengths of general brushes—ranging from 3 to 10 cm—were often insufficient for thorough cleaning and could even damage the relics.

 In response, the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage developed a specialized cleaning brush specifically for cultural heritage. This brush allows researchers to adjust the bristle length, reducing bristle wear and improving cleaning effectiveness. It is also designed for general use, making it suitable for a wide range of artifacts without the need for item-specific customization.

wipsglobal.com
KR10-2018-0073629, "Brushing tools for cultural properties

Restoring Artifacts with a 3D Scanner

 Artifacts unearthed at excavation sites are often found in fragmented pieces. A small fragment, just 5 cm in size, might seem insignificant to the untrained eye but could offer invaluable clues to researchers. The key is identifying what the fragment belonged to and reconstructing the original object. This is where 3D scanners become extremely useful.

 The invention utilizes a 3D scanner to restore cultural relics by scanning the fragments and digitally matching them with other pieces to predict and reconstruct the original artifact.

wipsglobal.com
KR10-2017-0041495, a system providing cultural property restoration services using a 3D scanner

The system includes units for measuring the fragments, generating 3D models, analyzing data, and creating skeletal models of the objects. In the past, researchers had to manually measure and analyze each piece, which was time-consuming. This 3D scanner-based system significantly improves accuracy and efficiency in restoration.

Color Matching Systems to Restore Original Hues

 Cultural artifacts are often discolored due to corrosion, rust, and wear over time. Iron artifacts, in particular, can become so rusted that identifying their original form becomes difficult. This next invention provides a solution for such issues.

It is a color measuring device designed to aid in the preservation of cultural artifacts by objectively extracting and recreating their original colors during restoration and replication processes.

wipsglobal.com
KR10-2022-0011243, "Measuring device for color matching of cultural properties for preservation and treatment of cultural properties"

The device includes components such as a magnifying glass for detailed inspection and lighting to remove shadows. Notably, it uses laser technology to match the surface color of the artifact as closely as possible to the original.

Preserving Textile Cultural Heritage Through Artificial Deterioration

Among the cultural artifacts unearthed, a significant number consist of traditional textiles and fabric cultural heritage. These textile artifacts, particularly clothing, serve as a crucial benchmark for accurately assessing the clothing and costume culture of a given society. However, due to the passage of extensive time, cotton and other fibers often suffer from weathering or decay, posing significant challenges for their restoration.

To address this, the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage developed a technology that uses artificial deterioration to preserve textile artifacts. A xenon lamp is used for this process. The xenon light source increases brightness without significantly altering the spectral distribution, making it ideal for artificial weathering. This allows for thermal treatment while minimizing changes in fabric durability.

wipsglobal.com
KR10-2520272 B1, "Artificial deterioration method of silk fabric for conservation of textile cultural heritage and conservation method of textile cultural heritage using the same"

By exposing the fabric to xenon light at a controlled temperature, the original condition of cotton textiles can be maintained. This method also minimizes loss of tensile strength and changes yellowing index of the fabric, thereby preserving the integrity of the textile for a longer time.

Innovation Illuminates the Value of Cultural Heritage

In this issue, we've explored the restoration and preservation technologies applied to cultural heritage and artifacts—our living history. The successful restoration and preservation of these invaluable treasures have always relied on the dedicated efforts of countless individuals and the relentless application of technology. We hope that technological innovation continues to advance, ensuring the enduring brilliance of our cultural heritage for generations to come.

A researcher at the Cultural Heritage Conservation Science Center working on artifact restoration
<source: Hankook Ilbo, https://www.hankookilbo.com/News/Read/201903191632365481 >

 

 

 

I'll make sure you don't lift a finger!- The Evolution of Robot Vacuum Cleaners

 

One of the Closest "Robots" in Everyday Life

 Do you use a robot vacuum cleaner? With the rapid advancement of AI technology, we are already living alongside numerous robots. Among them, one of the most actively helpful is the robot vacuum cleaner.

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Robot Vacuum Features That Do It All for You

 Living up to its name, today's robot vacuums have evolved to the point where there’s almost nothing left for humans to do. Mapping your home's layout is a basic feature now. They can also mop, clean the mopping pad, dry and sterilize it, and even replace it automatically. Some models now come with direct drainage systems so you don't even have to empty the dirty water tank yourself. Robot vacuum automation technology is evolving rapidly.

<Automation technologies in robot vaccum>

These features have made cleaning completely hands-free. In fact, younger generations are particularly willing to spend on premium models because of their unmatched convenience.

A Growing Market for Robot Vacuums

 The robotic vacuum cleaner market is expanding rapidly, with significant growth seen worldwide. In South Korea, for instance, the market surged to an estimated 294 million USD in 2023, marking a remarkable 48% increase from the previous year. What's more, with current household penetration standing at just 15%, there's clearly substantial room for future growth. The key to robotic vacuums becoming such a prominent part of our lives lies in the continuous, rapid advancement of their underlying technology.

So, let's explore some of the patented technologies that make robotic vacuum cleaners smarter and more efficient.

| Patented Technologies in Robot Vacuums

1. Environmental Mapping and Area Segmentation

 Robot vacuums started detecting obstacles with sensors around 20 years ago—longer ago than you might think. With the adoption of SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) in the 2000s, navigation and mapping capabilities significantly improved. In the 2020s, enhanced sensor technologies have enabled even more precise detection and exploration.

Robot vaccum mapping its surroundings
< source: samsung.com >

wipsglobal.com
KR10-2297496, "A robot cleaner using artificial intelligence and control method thereof"

 In 2019, LG Electronics filed a patent that enables the vacuum to divide its cleaning area into multiple zones for targeted operation. According to the patent, the robot captures video data through an image sensing unit. The controller processes this data, recognizing spatial relationships between the robot and obstacles to build a map. This reduces unnecessary movement, avoids collisions, and completes cleaning more efficiently.

2. Dry and Wet Cleaning Simultaneously

 Many newer models now include mopping functions, greatly enhancing user convenience. Previously, even if wet mopping was possible, simultaneous dry sweeping was often unsupported. However, depending on the type of dirt or flooring, simultaneous dry and wet cleaning may be needed. In Asia, for example, mopping floors is common practice, making this a high-potential feature.

Optimized cleaning based on floor conditions
< source: us.roborock.com >

So, there is a technology that solves the limitations of existing robot vacuum cleaners, which can only perform one of two cleaning modes: dry cleaning (sweeping) or wet cleaning (mopping). It is a technology that was applied for by China's Roborock in 2022.

wipsglobal.com
US11612295, "Autonomous cleaning device"

It adjusts cleaning parameters based on floor conditions and allows the dry and wet cleaning modules to move up and down via a "lifting structure." This enables simultaneous cleaning with different types of motions, enhancing both efficiency and performance.

3. Detecting Low-Height Obstacles Accurately

In the past, robotic vacuum cleaners often struggled with accurately detecting objects below a certain height, such as thick carpets, door sills, or window frames. Traditional camera or laser sensors alone weren't precise enough. This often led to problems: the robot might try to drive over an impassable object, causing it to get stuck or tangled. Conversely, it might needlessly avoid an easily passable object, resulting in inefficient cleaning.

Robot vaccum crossing a threshold freely
< source: lge.co.kr >

In some Korean homes, door frames and sliding door tracks often interfere with robot movement. Fortunately, machine learning and AI have resolved many of these issues.

wipsglobal.com
KR10-2550260, "Robot cleaner"

In 2018, LG Electronics filed a patent for a technology that effectively recognizes and navigates objects below a certain height, using low-level object detection units like cliff sensors combined with machine learning. This innovation means we no longer have to worry about clearing cables or clothes from the floor beforehand, nor do we need to manually move the robot vacuum over thresholds it can't cross on its own.

4. Self-changing cleaning pads

Modern robotic vacuum cleaners often include a mopping function to tackle floor stains. When this feature first appeared, users had the inconvenience of manually detaching, washing, drying, and reattaching the mop pads. However, later models evolved to feature self-cleaning, sanitizing, and drying mop modules directly within their charging stations.

Cleaning pads underneath the robot
< source: samsung.com >

Even with these advancements, a single cleaning pad can't last indefinitely and may require multiple replacements over time. That's where another patented technology comes in: the ability for the robot to automatically replace its cleaning pads without any direct user intervention.

wipsglobal.com
KR10-2618897, "Robot cleaner, station and cleaning system"

In 2023, Samsung Electronics filed a patent for a technology that enables robotic vacuum cleaners to autonomously manage their cleaning pads. This innovation incorporates magnets into both the pad attachment mechanism and the pads themselves. A lift device, driven by an actuator, then uses this magnetic system. This allows the robot vacuum to detach soiled pads on its own, even when not docked in its station. Once it returns to the station, it can then automatically receive a fresh pad from storage.

What Will the Next Generation of Robot Vacuums Look Like?

We’ve taken a look at some of the most impressive patented technologies behind the recent evolution of robot vacuums. With features like wet mopping, scheduled auto-cleaning, automatic water supply and drainage, pet care, and dustbin emptying already available, it makes you wonder what more could be developed. As these devices continue to sense and respond to our living spaces in real-time, we can look forward to a future where they become the central hub of smart homes—or even agile robotic assistants in their own right.

 

 

 

[International IP Briefing] US, INTA

US

U.S. International Trade Commission Recognizes Samsung Display’s Patent Infringement Claims Against China’s BOE

 On March 19, 2025, the United States International Trade Commission (ITC) acknowledged that some of patents held by Samsung Display Co., Ltd. were infringed in its final determination regarding a patent infringement case filed against China’s BOE (Beijing Dongfang Electronics).

(Background) 

On February 3, 2023, the ITC initiated an investigation pursuant to Section 337 of the U.S. Tariff Act based on a complaint filed by Samsung Display. The complaint alleged that certain active matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display panels and modules for mobile devices, along with their components, were being imported and sold in the U.S., thereby infringing Samsung Display’s U.S. patents.

(Key Details)

In its Final Determination, the ITC affirmed the findings of the Initial Determination (ID), which had concluded that Samsung Display’s patents had been infringed.

However, the Commission did not impose an import ban because the so-called "domestic industry" requirement—a necessary condition for remedies under Section 337—was not satisfied.

(1) Patent Infringement Investigations Conducted by the Quasi-Judicial ITC

∙ If a product imported into the United States is believed to infringe a U.S.-registered patent, the patent holder may file a patent infringement complaint with the ITC, a quasi-judicial federal agency with independence under the executive branch.

∙ Section 337 of the U.S. Tariff Act authorizes the ITC to investigate intellectual property rights violations, including patent infringement, and to issue exclusion orders (preventing the importation of infringing products) or cease and desist orders (prohibiting sales and distribution within the U.S.).

(2) Administrative Law Judge’s Initial Determination (ID) Found Infringement of Samsung Display’s Patent

On November 15, 2024, the Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) issued the Initial Determination (ID), finding that at least one of the accused products infringed certain claims of Samsung Display’s U.S. Patent No. 9,818,803.

On November 29, 2024, Samsung Display petitioned the ITC for a review of the Initial Determination.

(3) Final Determination by the U.S. International Trade Commission

∙ On March 19, 2025, after reviewing the ALJ’s Initial Determination, the ITC concluded the investigation with a Final Determination confirming the infringement of Samsung Display’s patent.

∙ However, the Commission did not issue an import ban because the “domestic industry” requirement under Section 337 of the U.S. Tariff Act was not met.

(4) Appeals Process Following the ITC’s Final Determination

∙ When the ITC issues a Final Determination of a Section 337 violation, it is published in the Federal Register and subject to presidential review.

∙ A party adversely affected by the ITC’s Final Determination may appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) within 60 days of the decision. If the Final Determination favors the complainant, the respondent may also appeal to the CAFC within 60 days following the presidential review period.

∙ In this case, since the determination was not favorable to the complainant, an appeal may be filed with the CAFC within 60 days of the Final Determination.

gettyimagesbank.com

 

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https://www.kiip.re.kr/board/trend/view.do?bd_gb=trend&bd_cd=1&bd_item=0&po_item_gb=US&po_no=23524

 

 

INTA (International Trademark Association)

International Trademark Association Issues Statement on Deep Fakes (Digital Replicas)

∙ On February 26, 2025, the Board of Directors of the International Trademark Association (INTA) adopted a resolution titled Legislation on Deep Fakes (Digital Replicas) and issued its position on the matter.

(Key Points) 

INTA expressed its views to assist policymakers in addressing issues arising from digital replicas and deep fakes, and in drafting legislation aimed at strengthening intellectual property rights and consumer protection.

(1) Overview

∙ With recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI), tools that allow for the unauthorized reproduction of individuals’ names, images, and likenesses—commonly referred to as "deep fakes"—have become increasingly accessible.

∙ Deep fakes and AI-driven technologies can cause significant, and often irreparable, harm to individuals’ names, voices, and likenesses. These damages may not be adequately remedied through monetary compensation.

∙ In the United States, Congress has been actively considering various legislative proposals aimed at addressing specific issues arising from the use of AI in connection with images, voices, and likenesses.²

(2) INTA’s Key Opinions

∙ INTA does not support any specific legislation regarding deep fakes but aims to outline policy principles that enable collaboration with lawmakers.

∙ INTA supports enacting legal protections against harm caused by the commercial use of digital replicas where such use is likely to cause confusion, deception, or misrepresentation about the nature, origin, or endorsement of a product, service, or commercial activity.

∙ INTA endorses legal mechanisms such as a rebuttable presumption or procedural tools to help facilitate actions against unauthorized digital replicas.

∙ The association supports the implementation of a notice and takedown framework for addressing infringements caused by deep fakes and the creation of safe harbor provisions for online service providers.

∙ Service providers who receive notifications of alleged infringement involving digital replicas should act promptly to restrict or block access to the infringing material to the extent technically and practically possible. However, such measures must also respect rights such as freedom of expression and fair use.

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1) The full text of the resolution is available at https://www.inta.org/wp-content/uploads/public-files/advocacy/board-resolutions/20250226_INTA-Board-Resolution-Legislation-On-Deep-Fakes-Digital-Replicas.pdf 

2) Examples of legislative efforts include:

·         The Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe Act proposed in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives,

·         The No Artificial Intelligence Fake Replicas and Unauthorized Duplications Act proposed in the House,

·         And the Preventing Abuse of Digital Replicas Act, also proposed in the House.

 

< source of the post >

https://www.kiip.re.kr/board/trend/view.do?bd_gb=trend&bd_cd=1&bd_item=0&po_item_gb=IORG&po_no=23495