Patent Terms Glossary

Classification

Definition:
Patents are classified (organized) in the U.S. by a system using a 3 digit class and a 3 digit subclass to describe every similar grouping of patent art.

Deceased Inventor

Definition:
A named inventor who has died prior to the filing of a patent application or during the prosecution of a patent application.

Counterpart

Definition:
An application filed in a foreign patent office that is substantially similar to (like) the patent application filed with the USPTO and is based upon some or all of the same invention.

Small Business Concern

Definition:
For purposes of small entity determination per MPEP 509.02 - any business concern meeting the size standards set forth in 13 CFR Part 121 to be eligible for reduced patent fees.

PAC

Definition:
Patent Assistance Center (prior), now the Inventors Assistance Center or IAC.

Intellectual property

Definition:
Intellectual property refers to creations — including inventions, artistic works, names and designs — that are legally protected. Intellectual property includes patents, copyrights, trademarks and trade secrets

Bookmark:           
Permalink:  http://S-0.ORG/tW1tZ5L

Contact our Patent Professionals to ensure you complete the patent filing process correctly or for violation of your patent rights.