If you’ve created a product that is unique then chances are you’ll want to protect its idea and name. Going about this process can be quite confusing and time consuming so it’s always a good idea to find an experienced patent attorney or a patenting agency , such as InventHelp, to take you through the steps. Read the reviews about InventHelp on ConsumerAffairs.
A patent acts as a standing legal document that is given to the first to file. It means that no other company, inventor, or individual can then make the same product, use that idea, or sell the invention that you have now protected by the patent. Once you have received your patent it is valid for 20 years from the point at which you filed the application. This means for 20 years you own the rights to that idea/product and you alone.
Applying for a patent
It doesn’t matter what category your patent is in, if you’re applying for a patent there is a process that will need to be followed which is regulated under U.S. law. Some of the areas people look to get patents in include:
- Biochemical
- Electrical
- Mechanical
- Pharmaceuticals
- Dietary Supplements
- Medical devices
- Surgical devices
- Computer and communication networks
- Computing systems
- Software
- Business methods
Before even applying for a patent it’s important your patent agency does research to make sure there isn’t already a standing patent on the idea/product that is protected by intellectual property law. If there are no existing patents, then you’re able to go ahead with your process.
After the research has been completed it is time to fill out the forms. This is an exhaustive process and one where an experienced patent agent can certainly help. You’ll need to include information like claims, drawings, and explain your invention idea. It should be noted that whatever the product is that you’re patenting it must be completed before you start the application process. It can’t be half an idea, a start of idea, half of a product, etc.
A look at the application
So what exactly is included in your patent application, let’s take a more in-depth look at what you’ll need to include:
Any supporting drawings. Claims, which can be more than one. They are the legal description you will create of your invention this is what others will be looking at when they research their own patents so the claim must be written perfectly.
Prior art, which is a detailed description of any products that are similar to your invention that already exist and are patented.
Preferred embodiment, which is where you describe how you plan to use your invention.
A description of your invention. InventHelp patent agency will be able to walk you through each of these elements and ensure that you include all the important details.
Conclusion
Inventing an idea or product is an exciting thing and of course you want to rush ahead and get a patent so you can start working on getting your invention to market. However in order to ensure its success you will want to be sure you follow all the necessary steps to obtain your patent and thereby protect your idea.
