Are there different types of patent applications?

• What is a patent?

• What can be patented?

• Does an invention have to be completely new to be patented?

• Who can apply for a patent?

• What standards are applied to determine if an invention is patentable?

• What is the first step in patenting an invention?

• When and how is a patent application prepared?

• What information goes into the patent specification?

• What is the function of the patent Claims?

• Are there different types of patent applications?

• What happens after the patent application is filed?

• Is there any recourse from an unfavorable final office action?

• What happens once the examiner finds the claims are allowable?

• Does the inventor have to wait for the issuance of his/her patent before beginning to manufacture or market the invention?

• How long does the entire patenting process take?

• Should an inventor disclose his/her invention to others prior to filing a patent application?

• What happens if two applications are filed for the same invention?

• How long does patent protection last?

• Does a U.S. Patent provide protection from foreign competition?

• How is a patent enforced?

• Can patent rights be sold?

• Does an employee’s invention automatically belong to their employer?

• What is a patent license?

• How does an inventor go about licensing his/her invention?

• Once a patent is issued, can it be revoked or modified?

• What are the maintenance requirements after a patent is issued?

Microwave Boiler and Hot Water Heater

Pre-Ignition Fuel Treatment System

Simulated Balloon Display and Method

Botanical Drug Compositions

Computer for Emergency Responders

Pet Carrier Garment

Human Echolocation System

Water Based Adhesive Curing Process

Hand Wash Monitoring System

There are four types: (i) Utility Patent applications, (ii) Design Patent applications, (iii) Plant Patent applications, and (iv) Provisional Patent applications. The most common is the Utility Patent application, which covers functional man-made items, such as mechanical, electrical, chemical, pharmaceutical, software and genetic inventions. Design Patents deal with ornamental designs of functional items. For example, a new type of fabric would call for a Utility Patent application, while a new decorative fabric pattern would involve a Design Patent application. Subject to certain exceptions, newly developed plant varieties can be the subject of Plant Patent applications. A Provisional Patent application can be filed one year in advance of a Utility Patent application in order to secure a “priority date” for the Utility Patent application. Since earlier patent applications predating the “priority date” are considered to be prior art that may be cited against patentability of the invention at hand, it is sometimes advantageous to secure an early priority date by filing a Provisional Patent application in advance of the Utility Patent application.