Patent an Idea |
Get your idea into a form that you can
file, following the pointers below.
Note that there are various pitfalls with this
"do-it-yourself" approach, which can be avoided to varying extents. |
| How to prepare your draft: |
- Read through the IPO's excellent information on Applying for a Patent.
- Use my
template file as a framework, and replace the text in each section with a description of your invention.
For further assistance, there are a number of helpful factsheets available from the IPO that you can refer to
which describe each section in more detail:
|
| What to do with your draft: |
|
You may apply
directly yourself directly at the IPO, sending your draft and Form 1 either by post, fax or online
submission. |
Benefits: |
| A patent application, often
referred to as a provisional application, gives your
invention provisional protection for a year after filing. But you can only
enforce your rights once your patent is granted. It also means tha: if someone applies for a patent for the same notion after the
date on which your application is filed, and your application goes on to
publish, they will not be able to obtain
a patent for the same invention. Equally of course, any applications filed before
today that cover the same or a similar concept would prevent you from obtaining
one. But it means you can approach investors, show
prototypes, and market your invention without fear of it being "stolen". There
is value however in keeping your innovation confidential, and using a suitable
Non-Disclosure Agreement in your dealings with investors. And if you "improve"
on the concept you have disclosed in the provisional application, you should
ensure that these improvements are protected in further provisional applications
before disclosing them publicly. |
| Further action after filing: |
| Note that at this stage no
searches have been made, but the IPO can be asked to do one. This costs £180
(including the application fee of £30) and provides you with a report on what other people
have done in the area. If you have a good knowledge of the field, you may be
happy to have this done later. |
| More links: |
| Use the box below to search for related information from sites that I have selected.
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