Patents are not the only legal protections available for intellectual property. Trademarks protect brand identity through logos, symbols, or even sounds. A copyright protects an artistic work like an original painting or a work of authorship such as a book.
There are four basic steps to applying for a patent:
Find a patent form at follow south africa whatsapp number data all directions carefully, and submit the completed form
Wait for your patent application to be examined — this process can take several months or years
Respond to any objections or rejections (it is normal for a patent to be rejected with the first application)
If your patent application is granted, you must pay an issue fee
Before submitting your application, ensure you understand which type of patent you need (utility, design, or plant), and conduct a novelty search to learn if that patent already exists. Conducting a novelty search first will let you know what, if any, changes must be made to your invention to qualify for a patent. Your patent application may require drawings, written descriptions, and examination fees.
Once your patent application is granted, your patent will be published four to six weeks after you pay the fee.
What happens after patent approval?
Once the USPTO has issued your patent, it is no longer considered “pending.” You will receive a patent number that verifies the patent is officially registered and cannot be produced or sold without your permission. If you believe someone has infringed on your patent rights, consider hiring a patent attorney. It may be in your favor to negotiate a license, but sometimes, suing for patent infringement is the best course of action.
Patents are not valid forever. Depending on the type of patent, you will be required to pay maintenance fees to protect your patent.
Empowering Innovators Through Patent Law
Patents protect inventors and encourage innovation. Understanding the basics of patent law will help entrepreneurs bring their inventions to the market while safeguarding their intellectual property rights.
Author Bio: J.D. Houvener is a Registered USPTO Patent Attorney and the founder of Bold Patents. J.D.’s experience as an engineer and businessman allows him to communicate effectively with clients to protect their assets and leverage their opportunities.