What is a ‘patent marking’?

A patent marking is a way for patent owners to let the public know about their patent. In Washington, this requires the patent owner to place a patent notice on the patented item or its packaging, with the following information: name of the patent, patent number, and the word “patent” or an abbreviation such as “pat”. By displaying the patent marking, the patent owner is effectively giving notice that the invention or product is subject to the patent and cannot be produced or sold without consent. The patent marking also serves as a reminder that the patent owner has the right to bring legal action against anyone who infringes on their patent. Additionally, patent marking allows potential infringers to easily identify which patent they might be infringing on and can provide a basis for damages if legal action is initiated. Therefore, patent marking provides the public with important information about the patented invention or product and can act as a deterrent to prevent infringement.

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What is a ‘patent marking’?

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