PATENT SECTIONS: WHAT ARE THEY?
A Quick Explanation of Patents and What's In Them.
By Ken Tarlow
When you look at any utility patent, here's what you'll find:
* The Abstract--The first page of the patent has a drawing of the overall item and a one-paragraph general description of the item. This is called "The Abstract."* Background--This includes information and descriptions of "Prior Art." In other words, this tells us what problem the new product solves, along with any prior attempts to solve the problem.
* Objects and Advantages--As a next step, this demonstrates how your design will overcome the problems listed in the "Background" section.
* Reference--The reference section explains the drawings included in the patent. The parts in the drawing are numbered and each number is explained.
* Operation--This is a section explaining the new product's operation.
* Summary and Ramifications--Here the section briefly sums up what your product is.
* Claims--This is the most important section. The claims tell you very specifically what is unique and patentable about your new product. If the claims are granted by the patent office, no one but you or your licensee can legally build a product that fits the design described in the claims for a period of 17 years.
The above offers you an overview of the various sections in a utility patent.
Filing a design patent is much easier. Simply fill out two forms, then include a one-page, 81/2 X 11 sheet of paper, showing a line drawing of your design. Show front view, side view, top view and three-quarter view (front and side) if necessary, to fully describe what the item looks like on the exterior (no interior parts).
More information is available at the Patent Office website. Mail all applications by Registered Mail, Return Receipt Requested.
The above article was excerpted from Ken Tarlow's MIND TO MONEY, a workbook package that can help you develop a new product from the idea stage to the marketplace. MIND TO MONEY may be ordered from the Dream Merchant at $59.95 plus $4.95 CA sales tax and$5 shipping and handling ($69.90 total). Send orders to the Dream Merchant, 2309 Torrance Blvd., Suite 104, Torrance, CA 90501.
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