How To Get a “Patten US”

One day we received a call from an inventor who had an idea for a new product. She was wondering how she could get a “Patten US” in order to protect the idea and bring it to market. This journey started in the same way as many great things - someone saw a problem, figured out how to solve it, realized that they might have something worthwhile, and took the steps to make it happen.

Inventor Tip:

Registering your idea early could be vital to keeping your rights. Sometimes it's a race to the patent office, as was the case with the telephone with two patents being filed the very same day. Do you even know the name of the OTHER guy?

Getting My “Patten US”: What Now?

Most people looking for a patent aren’t familiar with taking a product from concept to reality. The patent process is long and involved. But in the end, this is what turns an idea into something worthwhile. Fortunately, companies such as InventSAI (Small-entity American Inventors) specialize in leading first-time inventors through these steps.

Getting My “Patten US”: Is There Help?

The process for getting a patent starts with contacting an agency like InventSAI. Most ideas are just that at this point - ideas. However, when someone has something which they truly believe is worthwhile enough to start this process, it’s often a sign that there might be a good concept present.

Getting My “Patten US”: New Inventions

At this point, an inventor is presented with the steps needed to patent their idea. Early stages include checking existing products in order to figure what makes the new invention unique. This inventor wisely hired a professional to check the existing USPTO database to make sure that no one had previously patented a similar invention.

Getting My “Patten US”: Patent Application

Once all lights are green, the real process can begin and the idea really takes shape. All of the minutiae are hammered out. Detailed engineering occurs, artwork is prepared, and a Registered Patent Agent steps in to prepare all of the legal claims which become the legal protection for the product.

Getting My “Patten US”: Wrap-Up

This particular inventor was lucky enough to take their idea, get that “Patten US” and come up with a pretty neat product. They were quick to point out, however, that they were surprised at all the steps involved, and glad that they had taken the time to do it right. We, of course, were quick to point out that a “Patten US” is more commonly referred to as a “US Patent”…but then again, that’s what we’re here for.