1. What are the characteristic differences between software patents in
the US and software patents in the European Union?

2. In the USA, if a patent exists for the principle architecture and
function of a software system that takes data from data repositories
and presents it
on a web page using a known and non-patented graphic presentation
method, is it then likely to be an infringement of the patent to
independently contruct another system with a similar principle
architecture and function?

3. In the USA, are there legal cases settled in court that can provide guidance
and orientation in similar issues?

4. If so, which are those cases and where can information about them be found?