Sometimes you have an idea and you can’t help but wonder if someone else has had that idea already. You may have seen that great idea of yours come to fruition in the form of a new invention. However, how do you determine if that invention has already been designed and patented by someone else? The following text can help you find out if your invention has already been patented.
Is your invention patentable?
Before trying to determine whether someone else has patented your invention, you must first assess whether your invention is copyrighted. The United States Patent and Trademark Office provides information that can help you determine whether your invention can be patented (uspto.gov/inventors/patents.jsp#heading-3). Please note that laws of nature or physical phenomena cannot get a patent. Additionally, abstract ideas or inventions that are deemed harmful or offensive to the public may not qualify for protection. To qualify for a patent, your invention must be new and not obvious. It must also be assessed for its prescribed use. The inventions that most often qualify for protection can be an item of manufacture, a process, a machine, or a definitive improvement to any of these items.
Discover your invention has already been patented
The United States Patent and Trademark Office allows you to conduct fast and advanced patent searches; Patents can also be searched by product case number, although in this case you are simply looking for evidence of a similar or the same registered invention. It is essential to seek patents; Some people begin their search simply by Googling their idea or invention. This type of search, while interesting, can be misleading, as there may be no other trace of the invention outside of your protected product registration.
Searching for a patent can often be difficult. For this reason, many inventors work with an international patent and new invention company to help them navigate the ins and outs of the patent process. Because some inventions can be urgent, working with consultants can make the entire process run smoothly and lead to the production of your invention. When conducting your own patent search, you should plan your search for both national and international patents. The patent office recommends that you perform this search before applying for product protection. Furthermore, they even recommend that novice patent seekers enlist the services of a qualified agent or patent attorney to assist in the search process.
Take advantage of a useful resource
Since even research specialists such as librarians may find it difficult to assist you in your patent search endeavor, a patent agent who specializes in this area is a great resource to use. Because finding a patent is simply the first step in a long process to bring your idea to life, this type of company can help you with all aspects of obtaining patents and eventual product production. To safeguard your invention and move forward with the patent process, a renowned team of patent experts like Innovate Product Design is a definite step in the right direction.