You have just started on a project and you are still in the design stage. You are giving thought to several different ways in which the product development might proceed, depending on the materials that will be used.

You know that several hospital supply firms, one a local small business, could be manufacturers and marketers of a product of this type. A critical component will be the material used in the lift device, requiring strength and lightness, but with durability.

In your talks with the Transfer Officer, it becomes clear that another laboratory in the Federal Laboratory Consortium should be contacted to find out about alternative materials. The Center Director points out that some materials testing could be carried out in a local university that collaborates regularly with the Center.

You decide that a Cooperative R & D Agreement will be the best way to work with the manufacturer of choice. Collaboration will be necessary with the other Federal laboratory personnel. Key university staff will be included in any distribution of royalties.