Statistical Yearbook Thailand 2012

Statistics on Science, Technology and Patents Statistics on science, technology and patents presented in this chapter obtained from the National Research Council of Thailand and the Department of Intellectual Property, Ministry of Commerce. Science and Technology It is rapidly developed along with high competition both inside and outside the country. Previous administrations of the Thai government have focused on development policy and have pursued the science and technology development programme continuously. They have supported researches and the collecting of science and technology statistics. Statistics on expenditures and personnel on research work and development in Thailand in the year 2011, has been compiled to study the figures of expenditure and personnel in the field of researches and development in the government sectors, higher education, state enterprises, businesses and non-profit enterprises in FY 2009 to compare with those of other countries. The survey has been carried out every two years since 1987, by using the Frascati manual of Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). These statistics included researches and development work getting financial support from oversea., excluding expenditure spent on research and development work in abroad. Patent: Such of new processing techniques and new products are patented by the only persons or companies that are the originators and owners that could allow to make or sell a new product for a certain period of time. The Department of Intellectual Property is the focal point to provide the document for their patent. Also, the department has gathered various statistics of patent. Patent means important document issued by the government to certify and protect the rights of inventors who initiated in invention and new creation of product design. Under the law, the inventors can solely produce and distribute their products for a period of time and utility model as provided under the laws. Invention means innovation on composition, structure or mechanics of a product, including procession of production and maintenance, as well as quality improvement. Product Design means innovation related to modification of exterior feature of a product for beautification and differentiation.