 | Look for a practitioner who will help you explore ways to broaden your patent
coverage through additional embodiments and improvements.
|
| Keep in mind that the first person to file a patent application on an invention
has a big advantage over anyone else with the same invention who files later. The later
filer must prove with clear and convincing evidence not only that he is the first inventor
but also that he was diligent in reducing his invention to practice. This is a heavy legal
burden. Be first to file!
|
| Consider utilizing the new Provisional Patent Application. Careful planning can
now push out the expiration date of your patent by almost two years.
http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/pac/provapp.htm
Wilson Presentation.pdf
|
| Remember your duty to disclose. Make a full disclosure of all pertinent prior
art you are aware of. Promptly inform your patent practitioner about any further prior art
or any other material facts about your invention of which you become aware. Breach of this
duty will invalidate the patent.
|
| New matter can never be added to a patent application after it has been filed.
Be very sure that you have informed your patent practitioner of the best mode of making
and using your invention and about any preferred materials.
|
| Begin marketing your invention as soon as your patent application is filed.
Favor smaller local companies who make and sell items similar to yours. If you want your
invention to be successful, pursue commercial exploitation with all the energy and time
you can muster.
|
| Before signing any document, read, understand, and agree with it fully. After
signing it, make a copy of it, and keep it in a safe place.
|
| Always have a Novelty Search performed before having a patent application
prepared. Novelty Searches sometimes turn up prior art that you must avoid.
|
| Beware of "Inventor's Paranoia". Many good inventions never saw the
light of day because the inventor was afraid to tell anyone about it.
|
| After inventing something, prepare a document which tells how to make and use
your invention, and have two trusted friends sign it after they understand it. This is the
best way to establish the date of conception of your invention.
|
| Do not show or describe your invention to anyone before a patent has been
applied for, unless they have first signed a non-disclosure agreement.
|
| Be aware of the fact that picking the right name for your invention is sometimes
almost as important as getting the patent in the first place. |
