What is a continuation patent?

A continuation patent is a type of patent issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that allows an inventor to update their initial patent application with additional details and improvements to the invention. The original patent application will provide the initial description of the invention while the continuation patent can further explain the invention. A continuation patent may be requested when an inventor wishes to expand the scope of an invention or make changes to the details of the device or process in order to make it more effective or to solve additional problems or issues with the invention. For example, if an inventor developed a new type of bicycle, they could apply for a continuation patent to include upgrades to the gears or brakes, or to add new components or capabilities to the bicycle. In New York, a first time patent application must be filed through the USPTO and the inventor is free to file a continuation patent at any point during the patent process. Every 10 years, the inventor must pay a renewal fee to keep the patent from expiring. This fee allows the inventor to make adjustments and improvements to their invention and extend the life of the patent. If the patent expires, the invention is no longer protected and any improvements or changes made to the invention may require a new patent application.

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