- What does PATENT PENDING on something
mean?
It means that a patent on the item has been applied for.
- What can be patented?
US utility patents are electrical, mechanical or chemical
inventions that meet certain statutory requirements and are
operable. These inventions can be on actual operative devices,
methods for performing a process or compositions of matter.
There are also plant patents (on asexually reproduced plants)
and design patents (protecting how things look)
- How much does it cost to get a patent?
The fees involved include fees to the Patent Office (PTO)
and fees to a patent practitioner. The fees to the PTO are
usually in the hundreds of dollars, while fees to a patent
practitioner may be several thousand dollars, depending on
the type of patent desired and the complexity of the invention.
Various searches should be done to see how crowded the field
of the invention is.
- Can I do it myself?
The patenting process requires a detailed written explanation,
usually with diagrams, that fully describes the invention.
The patent examination process is fairly rigorous and usually
involves several iterations before a satisfactory version
is accepted by the PTO. Patent law is complex and the regulations
change frequently. Accurate claim drafting is important and
complicated. Properly written claims define the invention.
Due to the complex nature of patent law, most people arrange
for a patent agent or attorney to do their patent.
- What about those commercials that
promise to develop inventions?
Many of them are scams and are against the law. Beware firms
that offer many free services and/or require large cash payments
before they will work for you. Ask for references or lists
of satisfied customers.
- How can I make sure that my invention
remains secret while it is pending?
USPTO examiners and patent practitioners are sworn to secrecy.
Patent applications now are published before issuance but
this can be avoided if special forms are signed that the US
application will not be filed abroad.
- What do inventors have to provide
in a patent application?
The invention must be described such that a person of ordinary
skill in the art could understand and duplicate the claimed
invention.
- How long does it take for a patent
to issue?
Usually around 2 years. If it takes more than 3 years, the
PTO may reinstate some time.
- Where and for how long is a patent
valid?
Anywhere US law is valid. They are valid 20 years from their
date of US filing
- Is there any place on the internet
that has information on patents?
Please see my list of Patent
resources on the Internet
