What can I patent?

In North Dakota, patent law protects ideas and inventions that are new, non-obvious and useful. To be patentable, an invention must not have been previously made public or already patented by another inventor. Most commonly, people think of patenting products and machines, such as a new type of machine or a new device. But, patents can also protect other types of inventions, such as processes, a method of treatment, and even certain types of software. Business methods can also be patented, such as logistics systems or methods for conducting business. To be eligible for patent protection, an invention must have a practical application in some way. This means that the invention must be useful, meaning that it performs a useful function although it does not have to have immediate practical uses. Patents can also be acquired for compositions of matter, such as formulas, compounds and chemical compounds. Finally, designs can be patented such as the design of a product or machine. For example, an artist may choose to patent the design of a new type of furniture. The patenting process is complex, time consuming and costly, so it is important to make sure that the invention is patentable before filing an application. An attorney can help provide guidance on whether an invention is patentable and can provide advice on the patenting process.

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What can I patent?

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