What is the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) system?

The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) system is an internationally recognized system that is designed to make it easier and more cost-effective for inventors to protect their inventions on a global scale. The PCT is specifically designed to simplify the process of filing patent applications in multiple countries by essentially providing a single standardized patent application format that is accepted by many different countries. In Kansas, the PCT system is recognized by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This means that inventors who are looking to file patent applications in multiple countries may be able to use the PCT system to simplify the process. In order to start the process of filing a patent application under the PCT system, the inventor must first file an “international application” with the USPTO. From there, the application is reviewed by a special “International Searching Authority” to determine whether or not the invention is patentable. The PCT system helps inventors save both time and money, as it eliminates the need for them to file separate patent applications in multiple countries. Instead, the inventor only needs to file a single application, which is processed by an International Searching Authority. The PCT system also provides inventors with increased protection of their ideas in an increasingly competitive global market.

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