A patent gives you the opportunity to protect the use, sale, and creation of an invention for a certain amount of time. Before you attempt to file for a patent, it is important to fully understand the process that will lead to a fully protected idea.
Creating a Patent Application
Once you have decided to file a patent for your invention, you will need to submit a patent application. The application should fulfill various requirements of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. For example, this normally includes a description of the operation and the structure of your invention. Your patent application should also include a listing of the features that make your product unique. Once these things have been included in your patent application, you will be able to include a declaration or a signed oath.
Creating a Drawing
In order to obtain a patent for your invention, you will have to create a drawing of it. This drawing should accurately describe all of the aspects of the invention. Although many men and women choose to include formal drawings with their applications, this is not required. In fact, it is possible for you to submit a sketch of your invention with your application until your patent has been officially approved. However, after the patent has been approved you will need to create detailed drawings. These will have to be sent in before you are able to obtain your patent.
Filing the Patent Application
Once you have completed all of the necessary paperwork, you will be able to file your drawings and your application. You will have to include a fee as well. The amount of money that you need to pay normally varies. These items will have to be filed with the assistant commissioner for patents at the Patent and Trademark Office.
Communication
You will have to communicate with the patent examiner as well. While you are dealing with the patent examiner, you will have to include information about the details of your invention and the various qualifications that your invention has for a patent. This is normally a very long and complicated process. In fact, there are cases in which the process has lasted longer than a year.
Paying Fees
In order to obtain a patent for your invention you will need to pay various fees. You will need to pay an initial filing fee, and if a patent is issued, you will need to pay an additional fee as well.
