Patent Basics

This module will cover the basic facts about patents. We will explore the different types of patents, including utility, design, and plant. We will define the difference and use of both provisional patent applications and non-provisional patent applications. Further, we will discuss the process of patent prosecution, the role of the U.S. patent examiner and what to expect when working with the USPTO. Information regarding a number of patent prosecution programs and initiatives available to applicants will also be provided.

Objectives (What will participants know and/or be able to do after attending):

Understand the different type of patents

Know the difference between a provisional and non-provisional patent application

Introduction to the process of patent prosecution

Exposure to patent prosecution programs

Topics include:

Types of patents

The parts of a patent application

The examination process

Claims analysis with respect to novelty and obviousness

Office action.

Audience: Business owners who are either contemplating securing intellectual property or already own intellectual property.

Speaker(s): Lou Farina SBDC,, Stephen Koziol, Assistant Director of the Western Regional United States Patent and Trademark Office