Helpful tips

How do you read a patent number?

Alex Dopico

How do you read a patent number?

In the United States, issued patents generally begin with “US.” That is followed by the one-to-seven-digit patent number. The last part is a kind code. Each part is separated by a hyphen. A U.S. Design patent number starts with a “D” or the letters “Des.”

How do you read a patent claim?

The first claim of an issued patent is always numbered “1,” with each claim thereafter following in an ascending numerical sequence. Most patents contain about 10-20 claims, although there are some patents with only one claim and others with hundreds of claims.

How do you know if a patent is design or utility?

You can tell if a patent is a utility or design patent by looking at the patent number. If the patent number starts with a “D,” (ex. D91823) then it is a design patent, if the patent number is only comprised of numbers (ex. 8,029,027), then it is a utility patent.

What are the six steps in applying for a patent?

6 Steps to Navigating the Patent Process

  1. Step 1: Finalize your invention. To protect an invention, you first have to have an invention.
  2. Step 2: Determine if your invention is patentable.
  3. Step 3: Preparing to file.
  4. Step 4: Submitting your initial application.
  5. Step 5: The Patent Examination Process.
  6. Step 6: Maintain your patent.

Can a patent be both utility and design?

Both design and utility patents may be obtained on an article if invention resides both in its utility and ornamental appearance. While utility and design patents afford legally separate protection, the utility and ornamentality of an article may not be easily separable.

Can you patent a formula?

You cannot patent a formula. However, you can patent an application of that formula. Thus, while you cannot patent a mathematical formula that produces nonrepeating patterns, you can patent paper products that use that formula to prevent rolls of paper from sticking together.

How do you file a patent yourself?

Steps to Filing a Patent Application

  1. Keep a Written Record of Your Invention. Record every step of the invention process in a notebook.
  2. Make Sure Your Invention Qualifies for Patent Protection.
  3. Assess the Commercial Potential of Your Invention.
  4. Conduct a Thorough Patent Search.
  5. Prepare and File an Application With the USPTO.