Utility Patents
Protecting functional inventions and innovations
Utility patents protect functional inventions and can cover four main categories of innovations. These patents are the most common type and protect how an invention works or is used.
Processes
A method or series of acts that produces a specific result, such as a new chemical manufacturing process or a novel method for recycling plastic.
Examples:
- Chemical manufacturing processes
- Recycling methods
- Data processing algorithms
- Manufacturing techniques
Machines
Any device or apparatus with moving parts, like a new engine or a computer.
Examples:
- Engines and motors
- Computer hardware
- Medical devices
- Industrial equipment
Manufactures
Articles made by humans or machines, such as tools, appliances, or new types of flexible displays.
Examples:
- Tools and instruments
- Consumer appliances
- Flexible displays
- Manufactured components
Compositions of Matter
Chemical compounds, formulas, or biogenetic materials, including new pharmaceuticals or innovative anti-corrosive formulas.
Examples:
- Pharmaceutical compounds
- Chemical formulas
- Biogenetic materials
- Anti-corrosive formulas
Requirements for Patentability
Novel
The invention must be new and not previously disclosed
Useful
The invention must have a practical application
Not an Abstract Idea
Must be a concrete implementation, not merely a concept