If you have a great idea for an invention, you want to make sure it doesn’t get stolen. You want to protect your intellectual property. The best way to do this is to register a patent.
A patent is a license that helps you protect an idea for an invention so others cannot steal your idea. If they do, there are penalties for them and there is a legal process where you can protect your intellectual property – thanks to your patent.
We’ve put together this guide to help you with the patent application process.
The Guide To The Patent Application Process
Patents are an important aspect of protecting your inventions. Particularly if you are involved in prototype manufacturing and mass production, you want to go through the patent process.
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Here’s how to register your patent:
1. Record The Invention Process
Take a notebook and write down every step of how you built the invention. There should be no step left out.
If you build a prototype of the invention, you want at least two witnesses to your prototype. Have them sign a document stating the witnessing of the prototype.
Keep these documents safely, make copies, and back them up digitally.
2. Do A Patent Search
First, you must check that your invention is new and there have been no similar iterations. Do a patent search within the USA as well as abroad. Look at scientific, technical, and trade publications to see if such an invention (and patent) already exists.
You should also visit a Patent and Trademark Depository Library. You can hire the services of a librarian to help you find earlier patents.
If you find a similar patent and/or invention, then you will have to prove how your invention is an improvement and how it has differences.
The patent search process will be time-consuming. Make sure you do your due diligence and aren’t in a rush to complete this step.
3. File Your Application
When you are ready to file your application, you do so with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The two options are Regular Patent Application and the Provisional Patent Application.
The former grants a patent (if approved) for your invention or prototype. The latter allows you to claim a ‘patent pending’ status. If you are still working on your invention, you might want to start with the latter application. Within a year, you will have to file the Regular Patent Application.
While it is not necessary, you might want to consider the services of a Patent Attorney. They can help you prepare your application. If you find that your patent (once approved) is violated, they can help defend you.
Remember that your patent application might be rejected. You want to make sure that you take the time to prepare your case for a patent through your application.
File Your Patent
Now that you know the patent application process, you are ready to file your patent. We look forward to learning more about your invention!
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