If you are an inventor, you need to know what the patent definition is. You need to know the requirements of a patent is and whether you should get one? Many people talk about getting patents or trademarks or copyrights and sometimes they mean something different from what they say. You can show that you are more sophisticated by knowing what you are talking about by being familiar with the definition of patent. You do not want to look like a fool in front of investors and partners.
A patent is defined as a form of "intellectual property" which rewards persons whom invent a new and non-obvious:
In order for a patent to be accepted for patenting, it must meet the following basic requirements:
If you can't meet the above requirements then your patent will be invalid.
In return for completely disclosing the invention including how to practice the invention, a "legal monopoly" on the invention is granted to the inventor(s) for a specific period of time.
That legal monopoly is the right for the inventor(s) to exclude other persons and businesses from:
There are two types of patents that fit the patent definition and that are typically of interest to inventors, "design patents" and "utility patents".
A design patent protects the "aesthetics" or the "appearance" of the invention and is a much more limited legal monopoly than utility patents which protect the "function" of the invention.
Therefore, utility patents are desirable over design patents where possible, though an invention can be protected by either or both design and utility patents.
Both of these patent types meet the patent definition!
What good is this? If your product or invention can meet the patent definition then you can have an easier time raising money, secure your position in the company, and make better profits from your product, because you have no competition.
Patent Pending is the limbo between when a patent is filed and when you actually get a patent.
