Start typing here! You can add more paragraphs, images, videos, and more by clicking the icons in the toolbar! Roll up your sleeves if you are to Patent Your Idea or conduct a Patent Search. It is not as simple as doing a google search, it involves a lot of digging. This is really important to ensure that there is nothing else out on the globe like your invention or idea, this can be done if you patent it after conducting a thorough Patent Search. Before moving ahead to patent your idea or invention, a professional patent search along with an expert legal opinion from a Patent Attorney is what you or any other inventor needs. Before moving on, it is very important to understand Patent Search and Its importance. What is Patent Search? Why is Patent Search important?A patent search or patentability search refers to the evaluation of the patentability of your idea or invention. The existence of the same invention leads to the rejection of patent applications by authoritative patent offices such as USPTO, JPO, CNIPA. Therefore, it’s very important to ensure the originality of the invention. When you patent your idea, it acts as legal protection for your inventions. This ensures that your patent can not be used or duplicated or monetized without your permission. A patent search is indeed needed for protection from patent infringement. One can conduct Patent Search on his own to save money, however, professional services from companies that provide Patent Services are also a good option when you have a good budget. The best option is to avail of professional services or use patent search tools for the most refined results. Let us now discuss the 5 basic steps to conduct a Patent Search. 5 Basic Steps to Conduct a Patent Search# 1. Key string searchThe key string search refers to search using one or more relevant keywords in patent databases. The search involves the identification of keywords related to the invention, locating terms that are identical to the words related to the invention, and building key strings to be used for the search in the patent database. One can use the patent search tools with advanced search features to identify the search intent and reach the most accurate search results. #2. Invention DisclosureThe next step is to disclose the invention before the Patent Attorney. It is very important when you are looking to patent your idea through services from companies that offer Patent services in the USA. The Patent Attorney will first understand the invention or idea and then conduct the Patent Search. Patent Attorneys should understand the invention and your plan to use or monetize your invention before they conduct the search or opine on the results. An experienced Patent Attorney will thoroughly dig out your invention deeper by putting forth some questions to acquire information about all the aspects and applications of your invention. #3. Google Search Broader search can be conducted using the Google Patent and Advanced Google Patent search. You can write Google Patent Search or click on https://patents.google.com to land into the platform where you can start searching. For a comprehensive search, use different natural language keywords & phrases. Along with that, use the Boolean search strings for more refined results as per features of interest. Through the broader search, you can find publications (that include the patent document as well as non-patent literature documents) that have one of the features or functionality of your invention. #4. Patent Classification SearchTo patent your idea, you need to understand that patents are classified based on technical content for the quick and easy identification of particular technology. In the Patent classification search, one needs to put the invention under one or more categories that are suitable for the invention. Different classifications are allotted to patent applications like IPC, CPC, US patent classification, and European classification (ECLA). Correct classification can be done only after the confirmation of each feature or functionality of the invention. Once it is done, next is to identify the relevant sub-classification. Sub-classification leads to refined searches and enables you to identify the closer invention. #5. Patent Search Via USPTO or Other Online Patent Search ToolsUS patent search can be conducted through USPTO. To perform a patent search, you can dig out all the patents from two different databases like The Published Patent Applications Database and The Complete Patent Documents Database. This will enable you to gather the patent documents which are synonymous with your invention. Some of the popular drop-downs in USPTO search are:
One of the biggest reasons that one should get the Patent Search conducted by Patent Attorney is to well-acquaint the Patent Attorney with the invention, its features, and its functionalities. This further helps in the claims of patent your idea and they identify the limits for the expansion of the scope of what will be the patent rights.
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Have you ever thought about how to sell your invention idea to a company? Well, guess what, many inventors come up with great ideas daily as you are not alone. They find it difficult to manufacture those ideas by themselves, hence they prefer selling them to make big profits. There are multiple ways to sell your idea without any hassle. The Significance of a Valuable PatentA patent as a document holds utmost importance as it provides ownership to an invention. However, simply owning a patent is not enough to make money. In order to get benefitted in monetary terms from your idea, you must sell the patent, license usage rights, or market the invention by yourself. You have invested your blood and sweat to turn your idea into a viable product, hence you must eat the fruit of your hard work after you have gotten a patent for your invention. Here you can avail of patent-related assistance, from Patent Services USA to get your job done easily. Idea vs. Invention: What’s the difference?We use these two terms interchangeably but there is a thin line between an Idea and an invention that you need to understand. An idea, in general, is theoretical in nature that needs to be proven either with a solution or with a prototype. It is more likely an unproven concept emerged out as a result of your imagination that needs to be proven in the later stage. Whereas an invention on the other hand is the extension of the idea that is developed. It is the end result of that idea penetrating and traveling the long roads towards completion. For an idea to become an invention, it must follow the right path. The process takes into account several elements such as market research, product development, cost analysis, etc. if everything goes well then you are good to go. However, sometimes you need to redo the whole thing again as this process is not linear. If you are unsure about the process, you can contact Patent Services USA that is ready to provide you hassle-free assistance. Remember: Inventions are Patentable, Ideas aren’tIdeas should evolve over time to reach a certain goal. During the evolution process, there are chances that an idea might die. It is best to let the idea go if the idea doesn’t solve a need, or is not unique. Out of the entire idea process, an invention is a more evolved part. It is easily defined and more tangible. It can also be patented or licensed. Therefore, as an inventor, you need to explore your idea before focusing on the invention. Only then you will be able to shift things in favor of you and ultimately sell your invention idea. The job of an inventor begins with recognizing the potential of the idea, putting effort into the work, and turning that particular idea into something massive. Do you have a great invention idea?You can do some homework to get an idea of the number of companies belonging to your industry who might be interested in purchasing your idea. After making a list, research every company thoroughly. There are some business websites where they provide a separate section so that you can submit your idea. There are generally two options if you find any potential manufacturer that is interested in your invention. The first option is that either you can sell your invention idea or you can sell the invention itself for a lump sum amount as compensation in exchange for your idea. The second option is where you enter into a licensing agreement. Each time your product is sold it fetches you royalties at a certain pre-decided percentage. Go through the contract carefully to make sure that there are no clauses that keep the company from holding onto the invention for the length of the contract which allows you to leave the contract in case the other party makes little or no effort in manufacturing and selling the product. Steps Required to Sell Your IdeaHere are the steps required for selling your idea. There are some pre-requisites that you need to follow before approaching any company: 1. Research and Analysis of the MarketTry to gather as much feedback as you can on your idea. You can make use of various strategies and methods to perform this task. Getting relevant information about your competitor and his products is very crucial to understand the market and current trend. 2. Preliminary Patent SearchYou must conduct a preliminary patent search to avoid any trouble in the future. Put efforts to manufacture or patent your invention without infringing the right of other patents. Make sure that you follow all the legalities. 3. Study Your Production ProcessInvest some time in learning about the process of production, especially if you have some specialized techniques or materials that have to be integrated into your invention. This involves researching your production options in detail.
As soon as you have done with the steps, you will then need to show it to those who might be interested in licensing your invention. Construct a 3-D prototype of your invention as well as a sell sheet containing all the relevant information. A sell must contain the following information: •Product’s features and benefits •The issues or challenges that the invention meets •The market you want to pitch •Your legal status, such as trademark, patent-pending, etc. You also need to write an introductory letter that you will tag on with the sell sheet. The letter will contain the information including who you are, the reason for contact, etc. You will need to communicate with the best and most fruitful contacts to grab the maximum opportunity. You can research the trade association closest to the industry in which your product falls for identifying your potential manufacturers. Go through the list of members mentioned on the official website. You can search for companies in particular industries by going through the database systems present in business libraries. After preparing a list of companies, now it’s time that you decide to shortlist those companies where your invention can be demanded in exchange for a decent price. If you need any assistance concerning your invention idea, you can contact Patent Services USA to arrange a meeting with a patent attorney who will guide you in the best manner possible. Get in touch with our patent attorney and kick-start your journey. Patent attorneys are among the highest-paid professionals in the USA. As per data from top Patent Services USA, the median salary for patent attorneys is $134,322 which is almost twice what the average person makes per year in the USA. But what are the skills that a good patent lawyer must have? Are these skills natural or can they be developed over time? In this blog, we have put together the answers to all these questions and more. We hope that by the time you complete reading this blog, you will have a fair idea of the necessary skill sets that a good patent attorney must have. So let’s start: #1. CommunicationCommunication is an essential success element in any line of work. But its importance increases manifold for a patent lawyer. Arguments and persuasion are part and parcel of any patent attorney's daily work routine. As such having excellent communication skills have to be part of the patent attorney's armoury. Furthermore, good communication skills go a long way in building strong and long-lasting relationships with clients. It is important to understand that good communication skills aren't only about more words or a strong vocabulary. Instead, it is just the opposite. A good patent attorney can convey more by saying less. #2. Workload ManagementPatent attorneys are lone warriors. They have to handle most of the workload themselves. They can hire a team. Still, they need to be on their toes all the time. Their job responsibilities necessitate private research, analyzing, and filing patent applications daily. Amidst all these, they also need to find time to communicate with current and potential clients every single day. That’s why workload management is key to success as a patent attorney. It's one quality that you need to have or should inculcate to enjoy a promising career. #3. Technical KnowledgeA patent lawyer’s knowledge cannot be restricted to patent laws and legal procedures alone. To succeed, a patent attorney should be able to understand technical information related to the invention. Unless an attorney can do so, there is little hope that he or she will be able to draft a patent application that offers maximum protection to the inventor. Failing to do so, is bound to have an impact on the reputation of the patent attorney. So a good grasp of technology will surely help a patent attorney stand out and add more value and quality to his service. #4. InquisitiveInquisitiveness is another key quality to have as a patent attorney. Asking the right questions will save a considerable amount of research time as well as give you a better perspective of the invention's goal, technology, commercial prospects, etc. This information in turn will help the attorney ensure maximum protection and claims for the inventor in the patent application. However, curiosity should be exercised within the realms of professionalism. The attorney should always refrain from questions that are personal or outside the boundaries of the client-attorney relationship. #5. Attention to DetailThe work of a patent attorney has no room for error. Even misplaced words or honest grammatical errors in the patent application can considerably reduce the scope of protection and claims. Hence, it becomes vital that the patent attorney is always careful and has a single-minded focus on the job at hand. #6. Data AnalysisWe are living in a technology where the information we want is only a click away. As such the job of a lawyer is pretty much data-driven. Day in and day out, a patent lawyer has to deal with a huge amount of information. As such it becomes vital to develop exceptional nautical skills. A patent lawyer must be able to read between the lines and break down complicated information into easy-to-understand facts and figures for clients. Plus, analytical skills are particularly effective during background research on a patent and drafting of legal documents. #7. Work Under PressureThe life of a patent attorney is never a smooth sail. There is a lot of pressure to deliver on client expectations. Plus, patent attorneys have their hands full. They are working on multiple cases at a given time. This means the work needs will also vary. For some clients, the attorney may have to work on office actions while for others he or she may be preparing the first draft of the patent application. And these are just two among tons of other job responsibilities such as research, analysis, client communication, etc. Keeping this in mind, patent attorneys need to have a cool head on their shoulders. They cannot buckle or be rattled under pressure. They should be able to maintain their composure always. #8. Think Out of The BoxThere are bound to be bad days in any professional's life. But the consequences can be particularly heartening in the case of patent attorneys. Imagine you are a patent attorney and your client's patent application just got rejected by the USPTO or the patent examiner has raised some strong objections to the claims. What would you do now as an attorney? Patent attorneys have to face such situations regularly. They should always be able to say “I have an idea for an invention and I can get you out of this”. That’s where creativity steps in helps a patent attorney drive through sharp corners unscratched. #9. CandourNot every piece of news is great news. However, patent attorneys are not cheerleaders. Even if the truth is hard to swallow, it must be communicated to the client. Patent attorneys must be open and honest to the client when the situation demands. Especially, when a patent has objected to the claims or rejected the patent, it is important that the attorney doesn't mince his or her words with the fear of offending or losing the client. #10. EthicsLast but by no means least, the desire to act in a manner that is consistent with one's moral values is of prime importance. Patent lawyers can mint thousands of dollars from their clients or take extreme measures to win cases for their clients. Yet, any act that goes against justified moral choice can invite bigger problems down the road. In the long run, going against ethics may cause irreparable harm to reputation and respect. Final WordsIf you are planning a career as a patent attorney, the above skills are a must-have.
Even if you feel you do not have all the skills mentioned above, there is no reason to worry. With time and effort, you can build these skills on your own. Always remember if you put in the effort consistently and work towards your goals passionately, you will attain success irrespective of the profession you choose. We hope that the information we shared will be helpful to you. All the best! Before diving into the intricate details of how to patent a business idea, here’s a trivia for you… What is one thing that is common between The Monopoly, The sewing machine, The Radio, The Bulb, and Facebook? Well if you are still scratching your head! The answer is: “All of the products and inventions above are the byproducts of stolen ideas.” Yes! Ideas are precious, especially those that have the potential to change not only your fortune but also people’s lives. If you have a great idea that you believe is unique and has excellent industrial potential, here are a few things that you need to know to patent your idea in 2021. What are the different categories of patents?The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) issues three types of patent: # 1. Utility Patent: A utility patent is also known as the "patent for invention,". It covers any new or improved invention which could be a product, process, or machine. Once the patent is granted to an individual, other companies or individuals are barred from making, using, or selling the invention without the consent of the patent holder. # 2. Design Patent: Design patents are granted for the protection of the visual characteristics of a manufactured item such as jewelry, furniture, beverage containers, and computer icons. # 3. Plant Patent: Plant patents grant intellectual property rights to individuals who have successfully created new varieties of plants. The plants in such cases must be asexually propagated. Things That You Need to Patent an Idea First and foremost, it is important to confirm that your idea is eligible for a patent. If you are planning to launch an online store or a chain of restaurants, then there is no reason why your patent requests won’t be rejected by the US Patent and Trademark office. You can, however, patent the way your business is conducted. Further, you must also remember that patents are never enforced by a public institute. Rather, they have to be forced by you in case of infringement or theft. Also, remember you can hold the patent for 20 years from the date you file your patent application. You can renew your intent by depositing the renewal fee. Further, applying for a patent without a working prototype is never a wise thing to do. Once you have a working prototype, you can better evaluate the product's viability, commercial potential, and underlying technology. How to Patent Your Idea? # 1. Check AvailabilityHow do you know if somebody else has not applied for the same patent before you? All you need to do is visit the USPTO website and make a simple search, just as we do daily on Google or other search engine platforms. If similar patents already exist, the USPTO will return the results for you to see and confirm. If you find that your idea is unique, then you can move forward with the application process. This initial search will save you the time and money you might otherwise spend in claiming a patent for ideas or products that already exist. # 2. Pay Attention to Documentation When you are applying for a patent, you will have to provide every detail and information about the invention. You should prepare a clear and complete draft of what your invention is, its intent, its development timeline from ideation to prototype, its objectives, its target audience, and its benefits and drawbacks. # 3. Evaluate the Costs Patent applications are subject to a basic fee and additional fees. The USPTO will usually charge:
# 4. Hire an Expert It is always wise to hire Patent Services USA. You will save yourself a lot of time as well as the expert will ensure that your patent has no loopholes. They are experts in writing and documenting patent applications line-by-line. They leave no room for discrepancies or guesswork, securing the broadest possible protection and coverage for your idea and invention. Final Words: The patent application process is designed to make life easier for inventors and protect their ideas and products from infringement. However, to get the USPTO verdict in your favor, your patent filing process must match the government's written standards. Hope the information we shared will help you do exactly that. All the best!
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