Brainstorm terms to describe your invention based on its purpose, composition and use.
Begin by writing down a brief, accurate description of the invention. Avoid
overly broad and generic terms such as “device,” “process” and “system.”
Consider synonyms for the terms you initially select. Note important
keywords and technical terms. Use the following questions to help identify
keywords and concepts:
• What is the purpose of the invention? Is it a utilitarian device or an
ornamental design?
• Is the invention a process – a way of making something or performing a
function – or is it a product?
• What is the invention made of? What is the physical composition of the
invention?
• How is the invention used?
• What are keywords and technical terms that describe the nature of the
invention?
A patent for an invention is the grant of a property right to the inventor, issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Generally, the term of a new patent is 20 years from the date on which the application for the patent was filed in the United States or, in special cases, from the date an earlier related application was filed, subject to the payment of maintenance fees. U.S. patent grants are effective only within the United States, U.S. territories, and U.S. possessions. Under certain circumstances, patent term extensions or adjustments may be available.
There are three types of patents:
1) Utility patents may be granted to anyone who invents or discovers any new and useful process, machine, article of manufacture, or composition of matter, or any new and useful improvement thereof;
2) Design patents may be granted to anyone who invents a new, original, and ornamental design for an article of manufacture; and
3) Plant patents may be granted to anyone who invents or discovers and asexually reproduces any distinct and new variety of plant.