What is a continuation patent?

A continuation patent is a type of patent that works as an extension of an original patent. It is used when an inventor wants to refine or add to an invention that was already covered in the earlier patent. This allows the inventor to continue working on and improving the invention without having to file a new patent application. In South Dakota, a continuation patent is filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The continuation patent papers must show that the refinements or additions to the invention are different enough from the earlier patent that they are considered a new invention or improvement. The invention must meet all the requirements for patentability as set forth by the USPTO, such as being useful, novel, and non-obvious. If the USPTO approves the continuation patent, the inventor receives a new patent that covers the new invention and any improvements to the earlier invention. This will extend the protection of the original patent and prevent any unauthorized use or manufacture of the inventive product.

Related FAQs

What is the cost of filing a patent?
What is an inventor’s oath?
What are some common patent terms?
What is a continuation patent?
What is patent licensing?
What can I patent?
Is it possible to patent software?
What is an appeal brief?
What is a patent infringement?
What are the costs of maintaining a patent?

What is a continuation patent?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts