| Subject | Date Asked |
|
| Document Disclosure Program | 11/17/2009 |
Q: There use to be a Document Disclosure program in the US Patent Office where you could send an idea ...
A: The document disclosure program was discontinued because there was no documented cases where it ...
|
| patenting ideas | 10/9/2009 |
Q: I’ve got a couple of ideas. One is a souvenir for a specific California coastal town, and the other ...
A: It sounds like you have ideas for the category "Design Patents". Those are relatively easy to do. ...
|
| general | 10/6/2009 |
Q: this question isnt directed at you but you had a very reasonable answer for someone who had been ...
A: This is my second attempt to answer your question. When I point out this to the contacts I have at ...
|
| Copyright & Patent | 9/29/2009 |
Q: I am in the process of completing a few business plans and would like to protect my ideas and work. ...
A: Uncle Sam has the only copyright office. There is a government web site for it. You can download the ...
|
| Patent registration in US | 8/26/2009 |
Q: My questions are as follows: 1) ls it possible for someone in another country to register a patent ...
A: 1. A non-resident can apply for a patent in the U.S., but they must go through a Registered Patent ...
|
| patent or copyright? | 8/16/2009 |
Q: I have authored a children's book which is to be copyrighted BUT I also designed a stuffed toy of ...
A: You can copyright the book, and apply for a design patent on the elephant. You can get books from ...
|
| attorneys in different countries | 8/9/2009 |
Q: I am planning to file a patent soon but don't know which patent attorney i should get. I am really ...
A: Mr. Kant, in most countries, including the United States, one must first file in the country they ...
|
| patent help | 8/5/2009 |
Q: i have an idea for a patent that i believe will change the world, this isnt some gizmo or gadget it ...
A: My suggestion is that you go to your local free public library and get a copy of "Patent It ...
|
| Firdt time patent | 7/8/2009 |
Q: i am new at this and would like to know what steps to take to make this idea a reality.
A: I have a web site with a lot of free information that might be of help. ...
|
| Patent Violation | 3/9/2009 |
Q: In October of 2008, I filed and received the confirmation for my patent pending application for a ...
A: First of all, he is not violating anything. It depends on what claims are awarded, when the patent ...
|
| patent assistance worldwide | 2/10/2009 |
Q: you say that patent assistance worldwide isn't real than why are they on you link i feel that ...
A: Ms. Snyder, I am glad you asked that question. I rechecked my web page, at ...
|
| Patent qualifications | 2/1/2009 |
Q: In order for a new device to be patented,must the device work?
A: Devices that cannot be made to work, such as "perpetual motion macines" cannot be patented. The ...
|
| how do i find out if my patent has been commercialized | 12/27/2008 |
Q: how do i find out if my patent has been commercialized, and how do i get my share of compensation? i ...
A: On finding out if your patent has been commercialized: 1. If you have any friends at the company, ...
|
| new invention | 12/1/2008 |
Q: I have invented and patented a new product and am looking for a company in America to sell the ...
A: There is only one reputable approach, other than do it yourself, and that would be with a member of ...
|
| Resurrecting an abandoned patent. | 11/24/2008 |
Q: Approximately 8 Years ago I filed a PPA, subsequently an RPA and disclosed it to a half dozen ...
A: 1. The conservative approach is to consider what was disclosed to companies as prior art, which, if ...
|
| Copyright sign on a website | 9/25/2008 |
Q: Is it illegal to put the copyright symbol at the bottom of your website even though you haven't ...
A: No. In fact, it is a good thing to do. You put the copyright symbol, with the year, and your name ...
|
| Electronic game flow charts | 9/16/2008 |
Q: I have developed a game, made a board game prototype, written most of the patent, and have spoken ...
A: I suggest you contact Mr. Mark A. Manley, Professional Engineer, Patent Agent, email: ...
|
| Pending Patents | 8/12/2008 |
Q: I would like to obtain a patent on a project Iv'e designed, I know it is an expensive and time ...
A: What you want to do is file a provisional application for patent. All it takes is $105 check to the ...
|
| Design Patent | 8/7/2008 |
Q: what is the best way to approach companies to show them my design patent for clothing? US D569,581 ...
A: Usually the best way to approach companies is through the person in charge of sales and marketing. ...
|
| copyright question | 7/29/2008 |
Q: What is the rule for using two or three lines from a song in a novel? Thank you.
A: My understanding is that as long as you credit the song & songwriter, it would constitute fair use. ...
|
| Car Design | 7/10/2008 |
Q: I have a design in mind for fuel efficiency in cars. What kind of patent do you suggest. How is ...
A: You need a very strong utility patent. You can get more informaton on utility patents from "Patent ...
|
| USA NEW ''NEW SHOTGUN'' | 6/28/2008 |
Q: In the States a "shotgun" is being designed,which will not aim at people,it will not be used for law ...
A: Mr. Yiangos, I consider this a serious and legitimate question. I apologize that I have never heard ...
|
| Board Game Patent vs Copyright | 6/27/2008 |
Q: My board game uses common game processes (found in amny different games), but in unique combinations ...
A: A utility patent covers something that is creative, novel, and useful. It is a very broad category ...
|
| Infringement? | 6/17/2008 |
Q: I designed and attempted to patent something about two years ago. I used one of those "TV" sites ...
A: If you can find a link between that product and the company you can prove you sent the material to, ...
|
| Board Game Patent vs Copyright | 6/13/2008 |
Q: My board game uses common game processes (found in amny different games), but in unique combinations ...
A: Copywriting the game rules, the board design, the card designs, the packaging, maybe a design patent ...
|
| When can I sell my IP? | 6/11/2008 |
Q: I currently have a patent pending on a self disinfecting toilet seat. I was just wondering if I ...
A: You may sell it at anytime, with or without a patent. However, obviously, the question is will ...
|
| Patents | 6/9/2008 |
Q: I have a question pertaining to patents. It seems that at the company I work at a Patent ...
A: Patricia, the applicant has to sign papers affirming he/she is the inventor, and also papers ...
|
| Protecting a Concept | 5/23/2008 |
Q: Mr. Morgan, I have a concept that I have been working on and will be taking it to the next step of ...
A: Copyrighting your material, extablishing a trade name, and, possibly, a business method patent might ...
|
| copyright & email | 5/19/2008 |
Q: Morgan. I've recently heard, that in wishing to protect one's copyrightable material, one new and ...
A: I put this in the same catagory as the "envelope to oneself" approach....an urban myth. I would ...
|
| Patent assistance worldwide | 5/18/2008 |
Q: I have contacted Patent Assistance WW and have submitted an idea. They say they really like they ...
A: Short answer: It is a scam. Longer answer: You may be able to find the goods on them by going to my ...
|
| WotC TCG patent | 5/15/2008 |
Q: I have a very specific question and I understand the effort that will need to be put into it might ...
A: Your understanding you discussed in your third paragraph is correct. Beyond that, I can't help ...
|
| WotC TCG patent | 5/14/2008 |
Q: I have a very specific question and I understand the effort that will need to be put into it might ...
A: Jasper, I will give it my best shot. As a patent agent, I am not qualified to address infringement ...
|
| paw | 4/12/2008 |
Q: I have sent money and all product info. I have a great idea did I get ripped off? I have not sent ...
A: Try to get your money back. Talk to your state attorney general office. Find a legitimate ...
|
| Patent Assistance Worldwide | 4/9/2008 |
Q: I am wondering if Patent Assistance Worldwide is a reputable company. I researched them and they ...
A: I suggest you get a copy of "Patent It Yourself" by David Pressman, published by Nolo Press of ...
|
| Patent Assistance Worldwide | 4/9/2008 |
Q: I am wondering if Patent Assistance Worldwide is a reputable company. I researched them and they ...
A: No! These weasels constantly come up with new names. My web site, ...
|
| Patents | 4/1/2008 |
Q: We are going to produce a product which uses a different delivery mechanism for a powder. Similar ...
A: The basic answer is that you need to accomplish the same result without violating the claims of any ...
|
| Patent Assistance Worldwide? | 3/25/2008 |
Q: I have a great idea I want to patent. I went through this company Patent Assistance Worldwide to ...
A: They are not legitimate, based on what I have heard, in my opinion. Don't give them any money! There ...
|
| patent an idea | 3/24/2008 |
Q: I have what I think to be a good idea and I am pretty sure it is not around I do not have the skills ...
A: My website has a lot of useful, free, information. http://www.evansville.net/biz/patagent I would ...
|
| idea protection | 3/18/2008 |
Q: I have an idea for a product which I am wanting to pitch to some manufacturers. If I pitch it to ...
A: A confidentiality agreement is of some value. However, over the long haul, a patent. "Patent It ...
|
| Who owns it? | 3/12/2008 |
Q: Who owns the patent for MP1? MPEG-1 Layer 1. How do I obtain a license for it?
A: There are probably a network of patents involved, owned by the manufacturer, & there is a fair ...
|
| Patent Collaboration | 2/29/2008 |
Q: I am writing a PPA for a musical instrument. I invented the whole thing but there is a specific ...
A: The basic rule is that if a person contributes to a claim, he is co-inventor. Here is how I handled ...
|
| Can I use my patent after quitting the company? | 1/28/2008 |
Q: I came up with a unique structure on high tech material not related to my current position. Managers ...
A: Did you have any specific agreements you signed that have to be considered? If you apply through the ...
|
| Basic patent question | 1/10/2008 |
Q: I have a patent question about an idea I have. I don't know if it is the type of thing you get a ...
A: The patent office requirement is that an invention be useful, creative, and novel. By creative is ...
|
| How to obtain a patent.. and what you need? | 12/25/2007 |
Q: Greetings, lately I have been interested in getting a patent on one of my ideas. Could you perhaps ...
A: The most effective way to get a handle on the process is get a copy of "Patent It Yourself" by David ...
|
| Patent | 12/13/2007 |
Q: I am interested in importing a product (drywall stilts) from China. Before I import the drywall ...
A: If the product is over 20 years old, i.e. has been around in the U.S. that long, the patent is ...
|
| business plan/non-profit | 11/29/2007 |
Q: Ihave been working on organizing a non-profit organization for several years now. I also have ...
A: Copyright may be a way to go. A patent may be the way to go. Maybe both. (Software goes both way, ...
|
| Question Regarding Invention Idea | 11/9/2007 |
Q: Me and my brother are musicians and have came up with an invention that will help the everyday ...
A: This is my third attempt to send this. If others went through, my apology for mail bombing you with ...
|
| Application Strategy | 11/3/2007 |
Q: In you opinion, when applying for a patent, which strategy is better: * making sure you have ...
A: You have just asked the "$64,000" question. There have been two court rulings that have altered the ...
|
| Patent or Trademark? | 10/23/2007 |
Q: How are you. I am a fellow expert on this site and I am finding myself in need of an answer. Here ...
A: Sounds like patentable material to me. If it were I, I would file a provisional application for ...
|
| Patent Agent Search | 10/3/2007 |
Q: I am an independent inventor who has one patent awarded and two pro-se provisional patents filed. I ...
A: I am a patent agent with an active practise. I would be happy to help. Also, check the yellow pages ...
|
| design idea | 10/2/2007 |
Q: I have a new design idea for something that has been in production for centuries... a novelty, if ...
A: It may be eleigible for a design patent or a utility patent. If it is an improvement in function, or ...
|
| copyright a play | 9/13/2007 |
Q: how do I copyright a newly written script for a play - what is the procedure; is there a cost; whom ...
A: Simplest way is the way I do it, go to an attorney that does copyrights, pay him the $20 filing fee, ...
|
| need a patent agent. | 9/5/2007 |
Q: I have a prototype of a tool (Electrical remote control unit using all "off the shelf" ...
A: I will be happy to take this on. Please contact me via email at patagent@evansville.net with your ...
|
| is business legitmate | 8/25/2007 |
Q: I need to know if " Patent Assistance worldwide" located at 5201 Blue Lagoon Drive in Miami, Florida ...
A: Some caveats: 1. Florida is a favorite operating base for the scam artists because Florida laws make ...
|
| patent violations | 8/23/2007 |
Q: What is the penalty for knowingly vopying a patented product?
A: Recourse options for the patent holder: A lawsuit for triple damages against you, your distribution ...
|
| Patenting dietary supplement formulation | 7/20/2007 |
Q: I am wondering if a formulation for a dietary supplement (something like a Vitamin combination, ...
A: Probably. Cost: Anywhere from $6,000 to $30,000. Patent term for a utility patent is 20 years from ...
|
| Hello | 7/18/2007 |
Q: I am 13 years old and want a patent for a pretty good idea, what should i do?
A: Two suggestions: 1. Go to your local free public library and check out a copy of "Patent It ...
|
| patent questions | 6/29/2007 |
Q: i really need your help thank you.
A: If you go to www.uspto.gov and click on patents, a bar comes up with lots of choices, and you want ...
|
| invention | 6/22/2007 |
Q: This isn't really an invention of sorts but it is a technique that I discovered just this morning ...
A: If it is novel & creative, yes. My suggestion, to hedge your bet, would be to file a provisional ...
|
| Copyright | 4/9/2007 |
Q: I would like to reprint/publish a book that was first printed in 1846. Are there any limitations on ...
A: A copyright is good for the life of the author plus 75 years. If you are publishing only what was ...
|
| Patent information | 4/6/2007 |
Q: I'm creating a "business plan" in my entrepreneurship class at my high school. We are to make up a ...
A: All your questons are answered in the text "Patent It Yourself" by David Pressman, Nolo Press, ...
|
| toy - invention | 4/5/2007 |
Q: In regards to patent search and filing a patent request for a toy idea? I created a prop for a movie ...
A: It is not a complicated patent search. You can do a key word search from my links to several ...
|
| Getting A Patent & Licensing | 3/28/2007 |
Q: 1. What steps should I go through if I want to get a patent for a medical technology that I ...
A: 1. An online resource to start with: http://www.evansville.net/biz/patagent is chock full of free ...
|
| Patent Maintenance Fees | 3/13/2007 |
Q: Is it possible to find out if the maintenance fees have been paid and are up to date on a particular ...
A: Yes. That information is posted along with the patent information on each patent on the patent ...
|
| food patent | 2/21/2007 |
Q: I would like to improve a beverage and I was wondering what type of patent I would need. thank you
A: A utility patent. Figure anywhere from $7,000 to $30,000. Even with the patent, you might have ...
|
| Copyrights and Images | 2/12/2007 |
Q: If someone has posted my images on their site, (they are copyrighted), what do I do? Thanks, Kajsa
A: This is a serious matter, that requires a careful measured approach. You need an attorney to follow ...
|
| Scam artists | 1/14/2007 |
Q: Who are some of those sponsors that show up on the allexperts.com in the category of Copyrights & ...
A: Sadly to say, several of some of the worst con artists in the "scam the inventors" racket. You can ...
|
| patents and previous products | 12/31/2006 |
Q: We are a small business that manufactures safety products. We make a product that other companies ...
A: Go to my website, http://www.evansville.net/biz/patagent to the "Inventors Resource" page, to the ...
|
| Patenting a new game | 12/26/2006 |
Q: My name is Frank Smith and I'm currently working on a new type of game, but wondered how I might ...
A: There are a number of ways to protect your game. Utility patent on the game including the board. ...
|
| Question - Seeking investor. | 12/19/2006 |
Q: I have an idea for a business and I am seeking an investor. My question is how should I go about ...
A: You need to contact a lawyer in your state who is strong on intellectual property issues. I recall ...
|
| What happens next? | 12/7/2006 |
Q: Mr Morgan, We have a patent that is currently in the examiner's hands: ...
A: It depends on how busy that particular art unit is. Could be anywhere from a few months to a few ...
|
| Notary protection | 11/17/2006 |
Q: Will having a written proposal, describing a new business idea, notarized serve to register the date ...
A: Notarization does nothing to protect patent rights. An inventor's notebook is more acceptable, ...
|
| Safety tool patent | 11/12/2006 |
Q: I own a small cabinet shop and had an unfortunate employee accident on the table saw that has led me ...
A: The least expensive step is to start making & selling your product. That works for niche products, ...
|
| Patent for Sale or Licensing | 11/1/2006 |
Q: I have a Utility Patent and a registered trademark for a particular product that has both consumer ...
A: but no thanks. That is not what I do. I prosecute patent applicatons for inventors. I always ...
|
| sell patent | 9/15/2006 |
Q: My name is Jeff Ciarlo I have a patent 7104514 I just received the # but it has been on the market ...
A: Where are you located? Is your product suitable for a sheltered workshop? If so, it might be ...
|
| patent? | 8/31/2006 |
Q: A company claims on its website, "our patented bottle", yet on the bottle itself there is no ...
A: They may well be trying to mislead competition. It is a common practise, albeit illegal & there are ...
|
| music royalties | 8/30/2006 |
Q: Can you put 10 - 15 seconds of music in an instructional video without paying royalties to the ...
A: No. Copyright laws very strict. This is a personal opinion, not a legal opinion as I am not a ...
|
| What is the only Prior Art is mine? | 8/24/2006 |
Q: George, I'm in the depths of the patent filing now. The only existing Prior Art of my invention is ...
A: It is very important to you, in terms of attaining the goal of as bullet proof a patent as possible, ...
|
| Patent Violation Questoin | 8/23/2006 |
Q: I have been doing a lot of research into a product that I purchased several years ago. The current ...
A: If it is a design patent, then the patent covers only the appearance, not the function. If the ...
|
| Patent Search | 8/17/2006 |
Q: Where would I look to see if my idea has been thought of or has a patent to it? There are a ...
A: www.uspto.gov & do a key word search. I wrote a very extensive answer, but I am not sure it went ...
|
| Patent | 8/9/2006 |
Q: What do patents look like? I was curious as to what information they provide about an idea. Is there ...
A: Go to www.uspto.gov Click on "patents" on the left hand side of the home page. On the page that ...
|
| to patent or not to? | 8/7/2006 |
Q: George, I have a project I am working on that I feel requires a utility patent. In short it's for ...
A: Your lawyer is probably telling you true. I work with a patent attorney that loves contingency ...
|
| Cybersquatting | 7/29/2006 |
Q: There is an incorporated company using Theirname.com, if I register their domain and put up a ...
A: This involves copyright law, so I cannot give legal advice on this. I can suggest that it is time to ...
|
| existing patents | 7/16/2006 |
Q: This particular product had patent applied on an old advert i found for the item about ten years ...
A: This is something you should consult an attorney on. However, I suspect that if you make a good ...
|
| selling a patent | 7/13/2006 |
Q: Where is a good place to start with selling an existing patent. of which I have a full scale working ...
A: The first invention is always the one you learn on. The first lesson is that you should have a clear ...
|
| undefended patent infringement | 6/13/2006 |
Q: If one is notified that one's patent has been infringed, and the patent holder does not defend the ...
A: If you do not promptly defend your patent against infringers, your position deteriorates. It does ...
|
| Interested in finding inventor or attorney on patent | 6/7/2006 |
Q: I am interested in finding the inventor or attorney on Patent US4574269. I have done a google search ...
A: These days a patent expires 20 years after the filing date, assuming all the maintenance fees were ...
|
| new casino card game | 5/30/2006 |
Q: I have come up with a new card game that i believe the casino's would be very interested in once i ...
A: Musts: 1. Confidentiality agreement, drawn up by a competent attorney experienced in litigation. ...
|
| How do I patent my invention? | 5/2/2006 |
Q: How do I write down/draw my invention so that it will be accepted at the US patent and registration ...
A: You need to get your hands on the text "Patent It Yourself" by David Pressman, Nolo Press, Berkely, ...
|
| Patent Dilemma. | 4/26/2006 |
Q: Let's say I successfully patent my invention in Country A, but not yet in Country B, and someone in ...
A: Once your patent is successfully issued, it is too late to file in other countries. Country B can ...
|
| Powerful claims | 4/20/2006 |
Q: Well, I just thought that if I substitute "plastic/metal" with "solid substance" and "magnet" with ...
A: While that may be a way to go, in this example, I would recommend showing an alternate embodiment ...
|
| Powerful claims | 4/19/2006 |
Q: I wonder if I replace some words like "magnet" with "physical matter with magnetic properties" and ...
A: My advice would be to consult a good dictionary, to check that what I had in mind was covered, then ...
|
| Dyson's Story | 4/14/2006 |
Q: It's not a hypothetical question. I got that from Dyson's story. He is an inventor of a powerful ...
A: You asked how it was possible such could happen. Since it is not a hypothetical situation, it ...
|
| 2 Issues | 4/14/2006 |
Q: I want to ask you 2 issues. 1st issue - As far as I know, methods or processes of doing things are ...
A: First issue: Methods & processes of doing things are patentable. Second issue: This is a ...
|
| Some Explanation ... | 4/6/2006 |
Q: Last time you gave me this answer ... 1. Search. 2. Provisional Application for Patent. 3. ...
A: Mr. Chow, this is my fifth attempt at answering your questions. The damnable computer keeps either ...
|
| Your Expertise | 3/29/2006 |
Q: Which area of the patent process are you very familiar with? What about writing claims? Which ...
A: I am a sole practitioner. I do it all, but also have the final applications reviewed by at least one ...
|
| Stages 2 Go | 3/27/2006 |
Q: I am sure what I am about to ask may require consultation fees. So I expect any answers given will ...
A: My previous answer disapeared on me. For my clients, (other practioners may differ), 1. Search. 2. ...
|
| Crooked Agents | 3/24/2006 |
Q: I was wondering if hiring a patent agent (I don't know how to correctly address them - but I assume ...
A: Anytime you are dealing with a human being, you are exposed to such dangers. However, if a patent ...
|
| Provisional Patent Pending | 3/21/2006 |
Q: The PTO has a provisional patent application. Is there another way to make a provisional other than ...
A: Val, I want to help you, but I don't understand what you are asking. Can you rephrase the question? ...
|
| How to Find an Honest Unpatented... | 2/17/2006 |
Q: How to Find an Honest Unpatented Ideas Seller
A: Sad but true, there aren't any. The ouitfits that advertise on TV are scams. For the details of the ...
|
| patent process | 2/10/2006 |
Q: and thank you in advance for your help. I have had a couple ideas on some products that I have ...
A: I suggest the book "Patent It Yourself" by David Pressman, Published by Nolo Press. It should be in ...
|
| Pepsi Cola Power | 1/13/2006 |
Q: I am not sure if you know this but how in the world can Pepsi and Coca-Cola protect their formula ...
A: There is an element of baloney & hype in that story. Originally one of the secret ingredients was ...
|
| Disclosure of Pat Pending idea to Corporation | 1/11/2006 |
Q: I downloaded a STERILITE idea submission form. They state that disclosure to STERILE is not ...
A: I would try to find someone else that will work off your confidentiality agreement. Realisticly, ...
|
| Patent attorney | 12/12/2005 |
Q: He was recommended by a friend. Thank you for all your help. Regards, CathyHello. I hired a ...
A: Keep in mind that if it is a health issue...i.e. the attorney dies...in most states they have ...
|
| Patent attorney | 12/11/2005 |
Q: I hired a patent attorney for an idea I have. In March 2005 he applied for a patent on my behalf. ...
A: There are penalties for not meeting that date. In some cases, a rapidly escalating, as each montH ...
|
| Bumps in the road | 10/3/2005 |
Q: Hey! I really appreciate all of your help! So, I've been reading and I have started to work on my ...
A: Your obligation is to report what prior art you know of. If you don't know of any, skip that part. ...
|
| Patent question | 10/3/2005 |
Q: My first question is regarding provisional patents. I am working on an invention that I would like ...
A: FirstIt depends. We are a first to invent country, not a first to file, so how quick to file is a ...
|
| Me again! | 10/1/2005 |
Q: Hey this is Zach again. Will a provisional patent application, which you said would grant me patent ...
A: Zach, the only protection and garuntee of your rights is an issued patent, and that only covers the ...
|
| I had this idea... | 9/24/2005 |
Q: I'll make this quick as I'm sure you have plenty to do! I have an invention and one way that I plan ...
A: Only an actual awarded patent affords patent protection. However, a provisional application for ...
|
| Patents | 8/24/2005 |
Q: I have never filed for a patent before. Do you think I could file for a patent myself, or if I ...
A: Patent It Yourself, by David Pressman, published by Nolo Press of Berkely, California has the info ...
|
| patents | 8/13/2005 |
Q: Im a new independent inventor and I think I just came up with a that will really do well in the ...
A: My suggestion is that you peruse the book "Patent It Yourself" by David Pressman, published by Nolo ...
|
| Product patent | 8/2/2005 |
Q: My question is; to patent an idea, am I required to have a finished product? Or can I patent just ...
A: You do not need to have a finished product in the sense of having manufactured a sample. You do need ...
|
| looking for patents | 7/10/2005 |
Q: Where do most inventors find their inspirations?Hi Mr. Morgan, I am in need of inspiration and I ...
A: It is not so much a case of inventors finding inspiration as it is a case of inspiration finding ...
|
| looking for patents | 7/7/2005 |
Q: Morgan, I am in need of inspiration and I thought that reading patents could be useful, but at the ...
A: It is there, in the USPTO web site, you just have to know how to find it. The patents are sorted ...
|
| -------------------------
... | 6/27/2005 |
Q: Your reply raised a few other questions that I hope you wouldn't mind answering. You don't like to ...
A: Too many inventors have an idea on how a consumer product would be better. Unfortunately, consumer ...
|
| inventions | 6/27/2005 |
Q: I have an invention that is actually an improvement on an existing product although my twist makes ...
A: You are wise to do your homework (commencing with your intelligent & prudent question) before ...
|
| Hi George, Suppose I have... | 6/26/2005 |
Q: Suppose I have an idea and I go to a patent agent. My understanding is that he first will have a ...
A: If you go to the law firms in the major cities, 10/15 thousand is approx. right, in general. That is ...
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| Filing for a patent | 5/27/2005 |
Q: What exactly is the process for filing a patent? ...
A: Stop! Dpm't file anything until you have read the book "Patent It Yourself" by David Pressman, ...
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| Restricting Sites | 5/2/2005 |
Q: I have an idea to produce some small, personalized objects that I wanted to know how I would go ...
A: Read "Patent It Yourself" by David Pressman, published by Nolo Press. It should be in your local ...
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| Patent | 3/1/2005 |
Q: Mr. Morgan I always have these little ideas that I want to know if can get them patent, but ...
A: Jason, design patents are simple enough that most anyone can handle it. "Patent It Yourself" by ...
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| Patenting a Concept | 2/23/2005 |
Q: How far must the design be developed in order to be patented? Since since this is electronic, must ...
A: Jon, again, ideas in themselves are not patentable. You would have to have enough written disclosure ...
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| Patent on Public domain information | 2/16/2005 |
Q: ------------------------- Sorry, I will try explain, The legal firm in Australia is acting on behave ...
A: Tell them to buy the product & judge for themselves. If it has been out, manufactured by someone ...
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| Patent on Public domain information | 2/15/2005 |
Q: I have just been approached by a legal firm in Australia to review the product that my company is ...
A: There is not enough information for an intelligent answer on this. When was your patent awarded? Is ...
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| Patent for card game | 2/8/2005 |
Q: My focus is on the following: "... I CAN or CANNOT make public the details of my invention, inside ...
A: 1. You CAN. This is known as the 12 months grace period. (U.S. only). Other countries have their own ...
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| Patent for card game | 2/7/2005 |
Q: I submitted a disclosure document (UPO/SB/95) to The Patent Office, under their Disclosure Document ...
A: 1. A disclosure document does not "protect" you. All it does is establish a date of consception of ...
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| the "whereby" clause in claims | 1/10/2005 |
Q: I'm an inventor and legal lay-person trying to write claims to my invention. I've heard that use of ...
A: The answer to all of the above is, in general, yes. The "Bible" on claim writing is "Landis". Try ...
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| where to start | 12/30/2004 |
Q: We have an idea that we think is unusual and new. It is practical and low cost and would have wide ...
A: I would suggest the text "Patent It Yourself" by David Pressman, published by Nolo Press, of ...
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| friendster | 12/26/2004 |
Q: Why couldn't Friendster.com be patented?
A: Did my previous answer get to you? If not, here it is again. That is a copyright matter, not a ...
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| Can an idea be patented? | 12/4/2004 |
Q: I have an idea for a website and I was wondering if this could be protected by a patent? I have been ...
A: I believe you have a copyright issue. I suggest you check that out first, as copyrights are ...
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| To patent an invention | 11/25/2004 |
Q: My brother just came up with an invention, and he contacted a couple of companies that advertise ...
A: All the patent invention/marketing services on TV with the toll free numbers that I have seen, are ...
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| patents | 11/14/2004 |
Q: I had a patent search done by a patent attorney, he told me my ideas had already been patented and ...
A: Yes, but they aren't very good. The chances of selling your idea to another company, unless you ...
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| Taking an idea to market | 11/2/2004 |
Q: Followup To Question - A friend of mine has obtained a patent for a product, and the product shows ...
A: 1. He needs to stay away from the marketing comapnies that advertise on TV. Most of them are scams ...
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| Patents | 10/29/2004 |
Q: Exactly what protection does a patent on a product I created offer?
A: A patent covers whatever claims were allowed. The protection is a passive protection (such as a moat ...
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| Software rechnology patent | 8/31/2003 |
Q: I have invented several software technologies which can become commercial. They include some ideas ...
A: I would suggest that you protect as much as you can under copyrights. Not all countries recognize ...
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| New Design | 8/22/2003 |
Q: I am working on new terminal and connector design used in wire harnessing that is similar to a ...
A: 1. Look at the competitor's product & package to see if he is claiming a patent number. 2. Do a key ...
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| invention | 2/27/2003 |
Q: How do I go about finding out what's been patented. I would hate when I thought I came up with a ...
A: A patent search is required. You can do your own, on the internet by logging on www.uspto.gov For ...
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| Utility versus Design | 7/25/2002 |
Q: I had an idea for a net (basically a round piece of plastic with clips). I did a search and a ...
A: 1. Utility, or design, or perhaps both. 2. Yes. Then you must file the formal Utility patent within ...
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| patent violation | 7/4/2002 |
Q: I am an importer. One retail customer brought a sample and told me the product's patent has expired. ...
A: You are violating the law if you manufacture or sell the product protected by a U.S. patent in the ...
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| Patent Law | 6/5/2002 |
Q: After applying for a Design Patent using a return receipt (i.e. Express Mail). I'm told I can expect ...
A: Your local post office is an official repository for the U.S. P.T.O. for documents sent by the ...
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| A question about a patent application... | 5/19/2002 |
Q: I recently had a patent lawyer perform a patent search for an invention I thought of. He did not ...
A: Gus, it is very important that you work out the downstream costs of following through & have a good ...
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| Claims | 5/13/2002 |
Q: During a search on prior art I found a patent that says in the description of the invention that a ...
A: In terms of prior art, the disclosure rules. i.e. it is a bar to subsequent patent applications. In ...
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| Becoming a Patent Agent | 4/15/2002 |
Q: How does one study for the Patent Bar exam? (Books, courses, web resources?) Is there a Patent ...
A: Part One: The way to pass the exam is to memorize the M.P.E.P. All the questions come off it. ...
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| Pending Patents | 4/1/2002 |
Q: I have been recently notified that my company is potentially infringing on a pending patent that is ...
A: A patent pending gives no rights whatsoever, as any fool can file a patent on most anything. Only an ...
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| Obtaining a PATENT for less | 2/13/2002 |
Q: I have written up what I beleive to be a PRELIMINARY PATENT for my internet startup I understand ...
A: Yes! The correct small entity initial fee is $370. That $720 was last year's large entity fee. ...
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| Student | 12/30/2001 |
Q: I'm currently a senior working for a BS degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering. I was hired ...
A: You have asked a question that falls in the area of state law that I am not qualified to answer. ...
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| Seeking Your Advice | 12/11/2001 |
Q: I have just launched a new opt-in elearning portal at http://courses.yahoo.com/course/mrmc . I ...
A: 1. To some degree, especially to innately creative folks. 2. "Drawing from the Right Side of the ...
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| Legal Issue Of Foreign Patents | 10/15/2001 |
Q: Morgan, Say someone in England came up with an invention on their own and someone else in USA, ...
A: On the inventorship issue, it depends: We have a first to invent system, while virtually all other ...
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| Invalid Application | 7/28/2001 |
Q: Upon submitting a application for a Utility Patent The application number came up invalid when I ...
A: First the USPTO reviews your application, then searches for prior art, then drafts a reply to you ...
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| New Patent | 6/26/2001 |
Q: I have designed a pattern for a matching baby blanket, pillow, and carrier set. They sell well, but ...
A: If it has been on sale for six months, it is too late for a design patent, which is probably the ...
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| Selling your Patent Rights | 6/25/2001 |
Q: I currently own a patent for a new ice fishing device in the US and Canada. If another company was ...
A: Best bet is to get out a new product announcement to the trade magazines plus a publicity article or ...
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| A Question about Qualification for filing a patent | 6/22/2001 |
Q: June 22nd,2001 Re:A Question about Qualification for filing a patent Dear Mr.George Morgan, Would ...
A: In theory, yes. I have a book review page on my web site reviewing helpful texts on the subject ...
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| Internet Access to Patents | 6/18/2001 |
Q: I have a list of patent numbers that I would like to obtain a copy of each. I did this a while back ...
A: My web site has an inventors resources page with links to several different patent data banks. One ...
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| Obtaining a Patent | 6/15/2001 |
Q: Mr. Morgan, I have a product idea but have no clue about the patenting process. Am reluctant to ...
A: Baker: The secret of success is to do your homework. You are asking the right question to get ...
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| Patent search | 6/6/2001 |
Q: I have a idea for a tooth brush , and I am considering to patent it . I know the odds but it would ...
A: My advice is that you do lots of homework before spending money. I have a book review page with ...
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| Childproof lock for bi-fold door. | 5/24/2001 |
Q: I invented a lock for bi-fold doors about 2 1/2 years ago to keep our foster child out of the ...
A: Your best bet is to get a copy of "Patent It Yourself" by David Pressman, published by Nolo Press. ...
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| Patent | 5/5/2001 |
Q: I really appreciate all the time you are taking answering my questions. I told an engineer to use a ...
A: Jim, you had a good idea. You don't have an invention. It is very difficult to collect on idea ...
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| fashion Labels | 4/26/2001 |
Q: I would like to know how do you find out whether you can use a certain name on a fashion label. I ...
A: I believe you are in the area of Trademark law, which is outside my area of expertise, which is ...
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| Patent | 4/24/2001 |
Q: I have a safety product that I would like to patent and would like to get some suggestions from you ...
A: I have a book review page on my web site with reviews of helpful texts available through your local ...
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| patent | 4/22/2001 |
Q: I want to know if NAFTA converted the "proof of invention" system we did have, to a "race to the ...
A: You have been misinformed. NAFTA agreements do not affect our patent laws. Your workbook helps ...
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| Patent Process | 4/13/2001 |
Q: Morgan, I have a couple ideas for inventions and dont know what to do first. These ideas ...
A: Mr. Rule, I have a book review page on my web site that reviews helpful texts available through your ...
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