Reviewing the prior art

We will explore the importance of a patent search and how it is used in the patent process.

Core Concept #2

Prior art defined

Prior art refers to the current state of the art.  What devices and methods do people currently use to solve the problem that your invention resolves?  The Patent Office will not grant a patent on an idea that is already known or obvious in light of the prior art.

Conduct your own informal search

Inventors typically spend a few minutes of their own time to conduct an informal prior art search on the internet.  For example, I recommend searching for your invention at www.google.com or at www.google.com/patents.   If you find a reference that is identical to your invention, then you can move on to the next project or bring the reference to the initial consultation where I can review the reference and provide my opinion as to whether the reference will prevent you from obtaining a patent on your invention.

Should you file a patent application

The patent search is optional but an important step in the patent process.  The results of the patent search help inventors decide whether to apply for a patent on their invention.  Moreover, the results of the patent search is also used along with business and marketing information to decide whether to invest further time and money into building prototypes, seeking investors, and many of the other activities related to licensing or starting a business.

I am here to guide you through the patent process.  During the initial consultation, we discuss and explore various issues to determine the right course of action for you in your situation.

Contact me at (949) 433-0900 to schedule your initial consultation.

CORE CONCEPTS

1. Define the invention
2. Review of the prior art
3. Explore different ways of protecting your intellectual property
(i.e., patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret)
4. Foreign protection
5. Ownership
6. First to file under the America Invents Act
7. Patent Process
8. Questions and answers
9. Recommended next step(s) and estimated fees