The Business of Invention | F.A.Q.
- What is intellectual property?
Intellectual Property comprises of ideas, information and knowledge
- What makes an idea patentable?
LikeAn idea becomes patentable when it provides a new and or improved use demonstrable via a chemical, machine, device and or technology. Some altered living organisms may also be patentable.
- What is not patentable?
These cannot be patent: Laws of nature , Physical phenomena , Abstract ideas
- Who is considered an inventor?
An inventor is any person or persons who thought-up the invention.
- How can an inventor find out if his / her invention is unique and has not been invented before?
Contact and hire a patent attorney or agent to conduct a search of all previous public disclosures both foreign and local public disclosures. Another alternative may be to contact a local Patent and Trademark Depository Library (PTDL) and seek out search experts to help in setting up a search strategy.
- Does publication prior to applying for patenting affect an inventor?
In some countries it does in the U.S., an inventor has one year from the date of publication to file a patent application. (It makes the best sense for an inventor to protect his / her work before public disclosure).
- How long does it take to obtain a patent?
It takes approximately two to six years.
- How long is an invention protected by patent?
An invention is protected for twenty years from the date of application.
- How much does it cost to get an invention patented?
It differs so check your country local patent and trademark depository office.
- Until an inventor’s invention patent is complete how can an inventor protect his / her work?
An inventor can protect his /her work with a Confidential or Non-Disclosure Agreement/s. It is a legal and binding agreement that protects proprietary information. This agreement is drawn-up and signed before any information exchange.
