Your invention or product design could change the game and needs to be protected. In order to protect your business’s intellectual property or physical property (the invention or design,) you need a patent.
A patent is a security blanket for your product that disallows others to make, use or sell your invention or product design.
The three types of patents are utility patents, design patents and plant patents.
Utility patent
Have you invented, improved, or discovered a new process (a new way to make a smartphone,) a new machine (a new kind of smartphone,) a new article of manufacture (a new internal piece of a smartphone/a technical part) or a new composition of matter (a new chemical element?)
If so, pursue a utility patent.
Design Patent
Design patents provide security for the external appearance of a new and original invention. Not the internal structure, applications or functions.
Plant Patent
Secure this patent if you would like to protect a plant variety you either identified or cultivated.
Pursuing a patent
Securing a patent can be a confusing, long, and intimidating process.
When you are ready to pursue your patent, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) requires the following four items:
A document that details all aspects of your product’s process and specifications
Drawings of your invention (if your invention is difficult to visualize)
Your affirmation stating that you believe this product is the first of its kind
The finances needed to pay for any associated fees. These fees often change annually
On behalf of Crockett & Crockett posted on Tuesday, October 15, 2019.