Samsung SDI Granted US Patent for Secondary Battery

The USPTO has granted Samsung SDI Co., Ltd. a US patent (US12586846B2) for a secondary battery design. The patent, effective March 24, 2026, details a battery comprising an electrode assembly, retainer, insulating sheet, and case.

USPTO Patent Granted for PCM Thermal Actuator Switch

The USPTO has granted a patent to Raytheon Company for a phase change material (PCM)-based conductive thermal actuator switch. This invention relates to controlling thermal energy transfer using stacked actuator switches with different phase change materials that expand or contract at specific temperatures.

USPTO Patent Granted for Battery Heat and Gas Isolation Material

The USPTO has granted a patent to COOMMEE CO., LTD. for a composite material designed to isolate heat and combustion-supporting gases, intended for protecting lithium-ion batteries from thermal runaway. The patent details a layered structure incorporating various materials to provide insulation and heat conduction.

US patent granted for battery thermal management component

US patent granted for battery thermal management component

Ofcom Broadcasting Rules for Election Impartiality

Ofcom has published guidance outlining broadcasting rules for election impartiality ahead of upcoming elections in England, Scotland, and Wales on May 7, 2026. The guidance details requirements for due impartiality, appropriate coverage levels for political parties, and a fast-tracked complaint process during the election periods.

Protective Order for Confidential Utility Information

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission has issued a protective order governing the disclosure of confidential and highly confidential utility information in dockets UE-260005 and UG-260006. This order establishes protocols for accessing, reviewing, using, and disclosing sensitive information to protect competitive harm while facilitating the development of the evidentiary record.

STB Proposes Permitting Reform Environmental Review Process

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) has proposed reforms to its environmental review process for permitting. This proposed rule aims to streamline environmental reviews for transportation projects. The STB is seeking public comment on these proposed changes.

STB: Control Exemption for McCloud Railway, Ozark Valley Railroad, Washington & Idaho Railways

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) issued a notice regarding a control exemption for Michael W. Williams concerning McCloud Railway Company, Ozark Valley Railroad, Inc., and Washington & Idaho Railway, Inc. This notice pertains to Docket No. FD 36848.

WTO MC14 Event: Scaling Up Support for Trade in Services for Development

At an event preceding the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference, ministers emphasized the importance of the Trade in Services for Development (TS4D) initiative. The WTO Director-General called for increased international partnerships to boost support for developing members, highlighting the transformative potential of services trade for development.

China Round Table Highlights WTO Accession Benefits for Domestic Reform

The WTO held its 14th China Round Table on WTO Accessions, highlighting how accession fosters domestic reform and development, particularly for African countries. Director-General Okonjo-Iweala emphasized the continued importance of international cooperation and the WTO's role in rules-based trade.