Filing A Provisional Patent Application

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Once obtaining a provisional patent an invention idea is clearly identified as "patent pending". A provisional patent application, or PPA, is the least expensive and easiest way of trying to protect a new product idea. Most inventors do not follow through with the patenting process, which leads to good ideas going to waste. Any designer or inventor serious about selling a product typically needs a patent of some kind.

To file a provisional patent, one must first locate and hire a qualified, registered patent attorney. This can easily be done by looking through the yellow pages, both on and off-line. In addition, the United States Patent and Trademark Office, or USPTO, supplies an informational website, which helps inventors discover attorneys in their area. A patent attorney is specifically trained and knows what is truly needed to file a provisional patent.

The filed product idea should always be described in full detail and written in a simple manner. The title and purpose of the invention are the first factors to include in the description. The proper way to use and operate the product must also be included in the application. Enclose the main components of the invention in the description, as manufacturers will want to know the details involved.

Drawing or sketching the idea is a good way to help people fully envision the completed product. The USPTO accepts many drawing formats in a provisional patent application. Flowcharts, photographs and computer-generated sketches are all useful when applying with the patent office. Be sure the drawing is thoroughly labeled and as accurate as possible.

A provisional patent is only valid for twelve months, so at the end of the year it is up to the inventor to apply for a legitimate, full patent. If the invention is not selling, it is sometimes wise to simply let the deadline pass without reapplying. If the original inventor of the product does not reapply, other people are welcome to use the invention idea as their own.

The process of filing a provisional patent application is similar to filing for a standard patent. The application must always include a full write-up and sketch, along with any photographs and charts. The writing is not necessarily the most important aspect of the application, as the sketch is what will generally capture people's attention. For most inventors, hiring a patent attorney is probably the best way to prepare for the application process.


About the Author:
Do you have an invention you'd like to gain a patent on? If so you'll want to find the best patent lawyer for you. Research your options on http://www.patenteducationseries.com



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