The power of patents: driving innovation and a sustainable future
As we celebrate World Intellectual Property (IP) Day, we recognize the relentless efforts of our inventors and innovators who push the boundaries of technology.
Web Story
5min
2025-04-24
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For 25 years, World Intellectual Property (IP) Day has recognized the importance of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and other forms of intellectual property in shaping our world.02
This year we advanced technologies to help industries navigate change with smarter and more sustainable operations.03
Our commitment to technological advancements is evident in our 6,000+ inventors and 28,000+ patent assets cementing our position as a leader in industrial innovation.Why Intellectual Property matters
Innovation is the foundation of our success. Patents, trademarks, and copyrights are essential in protecting groundbreaking ideas, ensuring companies can continue to invest in cutting-edge research. Our intellectual property portfolio safeguards our R&D investments, fosters competitive advantage, and accelerates the development of sustainable, energy-efficient solutions.
Just recently, we were ranked by the European Patent Office as the second top Swiss company for patent applications in 2024 and 36th globally. Our leap to second place is powered by our R&D experts in 30 countries and our strong IP community, demonstrating a commitment to transforming industries through world-class technology.
Our 2024 innovation highlights:
> $1.4 billion
R&D investment in 20244.5%
revenues invested in R&D in 2024~7,800
R&D employees>750
priority patents filed in 2024~22k
Granted patents~6K
Pending patent applications9
venture investments in 2024~$50 million
venture investments in 2024~2,000
secondary patents filed in 2024Investing in the future of technology
Since 2020, we have increased our research and development (R&D) spending by 40%, reinforcing our commitment to innovation. In 2024, $1.5 bn on R&D was invested and we focus on electrification, automation, and digital solutions that help industries transition toward cleaner energy and smarter operations. More than half of ABB’s customer offerings are linked to electrification and automation, areas where we excel in driving progress.
Breakthrough innovations shaping tomorrow
ABB’s latest technological advancements are redefining industry standards:
Genix Copilot
Developed in collaboration with Microsoft, this generative AI-powered assistant enhances asset performance management, helping industries optimize operations.
ABB eMine™ Robot Automated Connection Device
A groundbreaking innovation, developed in partnership with Komatsu, to electrify mining trucks and support sustainable mining practices.
ABB Crealizer™
A next-generation open software platform integrated into ABB drives, allowing customers to create, validate, and implement customized industrial solutions.
Fashion Inductor and Parcel Inductor
AI-powered, high-accuracy fast picking technology, developed by ABB, increases efficiency, reduces labor dependency, and integrates seamlessly into existing systems for rapid deployment
Visual SLAM Technology
Acquired through Sevensense, this AI-powered vision navigation system is transforming robotics and automation.
Miniature circuit breaker (MCB) status detection system
An innovative sensing technology that “probes” the MCB remotely, to determine breaker open/closed status, thus eliminating the need for costly and time consuming modifications of existing cabinets.
These innovations are helping industries outrun, leaner and cleaner - through solutions that enable greater efficiency, resilience, and performance.
Recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization
Some of our innovations have been recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Green Technology Book. This book highlights over 200 innovative energy solutions aimed at addressing climate change by putting technology and innovation at the forefront. The 2024 edition focuses on rural and urban areas, hospitals, supermarkets, and data centers. Our SynRM motor, for the water utulities segment, is part of ABB’s EcoSolutions portfolio, emphasizing sustainability with third-party-verified environmental declarations. Our ACQ80 solar pump was also featured as it ensures efficient water management by seamlessly blending solar DC and grid AC inputs, even during low sunlight.
Shaping a more sustainable future
For us, innovation isn’t just about staying ahead in the market — it’s about creating solutions that address the world’s energy challenges, improve industrial efficiency, and contribute to a sustainable future. Our innovations and intellectual property are key differentiators. They enable us to create superior value for our customers by optimizing, electrifying and decarbonizing their operations.