Kanako Onishi

Patent Agent (Limited Recognition) / Detroit Metro Office

Kanako Onishi contributes to patent prosecution and serves as a liaison with Harness IP’s Japanese clients. She is committed to helping clients safeguard their intellectual property rights. A native of Japan with over ten years of experience as a Japanese Patent Attorney, Kanako understands the key differences in IP protection between Japan and the U.S. She quickly builds strong relationships with clients, solving communication challenges and bridging cultural gaps.

Another strength is her ability to present effectively in both Japanese and English, clearly explaining the distinctions in IP protection between the two countries. Her meticulous research skills and attention to detail establish trust with clients across various sectors, including manufacturing, mechanical, and energy production. Kanako’s client-focused approach and extensive knowledge of Japanese patent matters provide Harness IP with a distinct advantage, especially for companies doing business in Japan and the U.S.

Background

Background

Kanako’s experience spans not only patent drafting and prosecution but also various patent searches and licensing negotiations. She possesses a broad perspective of the entire lifecycle of inventions, from creation to commercialization. She has worked in a patent firm and in the intellectual property department of a university, as well as for a global steel manufacturer. There, she focused on upstream iron- and steel-making innovations. Over time, she expanded her expertise to include downstream technologies, such as welding and automotive parts-related innovations.

Kanako lives in Troy, Michigan. She is interested in cooking and enjoys recreating hard-to-find Japanese confections.