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An invention disclosure is a detailed, written record of the invention that is provided to a patent attorney. It is not a formal patent application, but rather a comprehensive description of the idea, its features, and its potential uses. The invention disclosure acts as a blueprint, capturing the essential innovative aspects of the invention so the patent attorney can transform it into a concise, clear patent application. Additionally, the invention disclosure is often used to formulate and guide a prior art search (“prior art” is a term used to describe publicly available information or the current state of the art). A thorough invention disclosure results in a more accurate prior art search, which, in turn, allows both the inventor and the patent attorney to better understand where the invention stands, along with charting a path to best position the invention within the inventive space. Properly disclosing the invention at an early-stage results in a smoother, more cost-effective patent prosecution process.
· Title of the Invention: A clear and concise title that accurately reflects the invention.
· Inventor(s): Full names and contact information of all inventors.
· Description of the Invention: A detailed explanation of the invention, including, for example, how the invention works or operates, how the invention is made or constructed, and how the invention is used. Oftentimes, drawings, diagrams, flowcharts or photographs, if available, are helpful.
· Problem Solved: Explain the problem the invention addresses and how it provides a solution.
· Advantages and Benefits: Highlight the unique advantages and benefits of the invention over existing technologies.
· Potential Applications: Describe the various ways the invention can be used.
· Prior Art: List any existing patents, publications, websites, products, or other publicly available information that relate to the invention, even if the prior art seems different than the invention.
· Proper Documentation & Working Through the Invention: Putting ideas into writing forces a level of clarity and precision often absent in the purely mental concept. The act of translating thoughts into words requires a structured approach, demanding that terms are defined in a meaningful way, ensuring logical connections, and highlighting any potential inconsistencies. This process helps to flesh out vague notions, revealing gaps in understanding, and prompting further refinement and clarity. By externalizing the ideas into a written record, a tangible representation is created that can be critically examined transforming the once abstract concept into meaningful guidance for the patent attorney and those conducting the prior art search.
· Streamlining Preparation of the Patent Application: The disclosure serves as a foundation for the patent application, providing the patent attorney with the necessary information to draft accurate and comprehensive claims.
· Investment and Licensing Opportunities: A well-crafted patent invention disclosure can easily be transformed into a powerful way to generate investment and licensing opportunities. By simply modifying the document in a way that targets potential investors and licensees, the invention disclosure offers a clear articulation of the invention's value and potential. By meticulously documenting the invention's unique features, advantages, and applications, the disclosure can be used to attract potential licensees and investors. Moreover, the invention disclosure can also highlight the invention's potential to solve industry-specific problems or carve out new market niches, attracting businesses seeking innovative solutions. Presenting the invention disclosure in an efficient, streamlined manner enables the potential licensees or investors to quickly assess the invention's suitability for their needs and recognize the invention’s market relevance, fostering confidence in its commercial viability, and ultimately creating opportunities for licensing agreements and the ability to generate investment funding.
1. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your invention, including sketches, notes, and prototypes.
2. Maintain Confidentiality: Treat your invention as confidential at least until you have filed a patent application. Avoid public disclosures or discussions that could jeopardize your patent rights.
3. Avoid Public Disclosure Before Filing: Do not publish, present, or publicly share details about your invention before securing protection.
4. Don't Delay: File your invention disclosure as soon as possible after conceiving your invention.
5. Seek Professional Help: Consult with a patent attorney to ensure your invention disclosure is properly prepared and to understand the patent process.
The invention disclosure is a critical first step in protecting your intellectual property. By creating a comprehensive and well-documented disclosure, the groundwork for a successful patent application is laid, which can ultimately increase the chances of securing exclusive rights in the invention.
Lloyd & Mousilli boasts a team of experts in patent and intellectual property law. Let us employ our extensive experience helping early-stage innovators to receive the fullest patent protection over the novel idea at the earliest date to ensure priority. We have overseen patent strategies for consumer products at some of the largest technology companies and want to share this experience with you. The different teams at our firm, led by seasoned attorneys, work in synergy to help businesses seamlessly weave their patents throughout their broader business strategy. We will ensure that any equity agreements, assignment rights, employment agreements, non-disclosures and all other relevant documents accurately reflect the scope and rights regarding your innovations. Our goal at Lloyd & Mousilli is to help clients accomplish their long-term goals by working closely with them at each stage and tailoring our advice in accordance with the client’s aspirations and needs.
For legal assistance, reach out and consult with the Lloyd & Mousilli patent legal team or set-up a free consultation through our website for questions about invention disclosures, patent applications, or any questions relating to intellectual property or other business needs.
