3. Perform a Thorough Search for the Patent
Before filing a patent, you must make sure that this innovation is not anticipated in any other way before you take action. You can perform a comprehensive patent search to confirm this. There are several ways to identify existing patents:
1. You can search reputable databases, such as WIPO or the USPTO website.
2. Do a comprehensive patent search using Google’s patent search option. Search for keywords, key phrases, inventors’ names, etc.
3- You can use the guidance of experts in patent centers and trademark sources.
4- You can pre-search for articles related to your field of work in journals.
5- Another solution is to attend national and international conferences to identify the latest technology trends and developments.
4. Select the Type of Patent
There are two types of patent applications that each person can file based on their needs, which are provisional and non-provisional. Let’s see their differences.
Provisional patents are informal, quick, and easy to file. The inventor is given one year to register the relevant non-provisional patent. The benefits of filing a provisional patent are as follows:
• Faster initial process
• More cost-effective than filing a non-provisional patent
• Helps the creation of an official USPTO archive date that enables prioritization
• Gives the applicant one year to fully evaluate the practicality of the technology at the commercial level
Non-provisional patents are more formal. They must be prepared in full compliance with patent standards. A patent inspector carefully examines the application and, if approved, submits a patent for 20 years from the date of filing.
A researcher must carefully consider all aspects before deciding what type of patent to file. Provisional patents are useful when a technology has multiple versions and the applicant is unsure about which version can be more commercially valuable. However, incorrectly requesting a provisional patent and misrepresenting a patent can be fatal to your application and make it worthless.
5. Prepare Your Patent Application Skillfully
Preparing a patent application can be a daunting task. Therefore, you must carefully follow all instructions set by the USPTO. The main components of a patent application are:
1- Title of the application
2- Background and summary of the invention
3- Summaries and drawings
4- Description of designs and drawings
5- Patent claims
6- Cross-reference to similar applications
The most important features of these elements are:
- The title should be concise and simple.
- Drawings and descriptions should be detailed, extensive, and comprehensive.
- Claims should be complemented by an introductory phrase about the purpose of the invention and body which emphasizes the precise ideas you seek to protect.
- Discuss different ways to use technology. Also, monitor the set of terms you use to describe your innovation and its variations. They should not be vague or difficult to follow.
Have you ever applied for a patent? Please share your experiences with us in the comments section below!