a patent pending

a patent pending
Many companies begin manufacturing and selling its new product (aka their invention) on the market before the patent is officially granted. They use the term" patent pending "to indicate that the product is copyrighted and a patent is (just like the term states), is pending.

The only way (or company) can ever legally, the term "patent pending" is when a patent application was filed to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Any natural or legal person who falsely uses this term can be fined. So make sure that only if it is true.

During this time, patent pending, the USPTO will use in the ceiling. Nobody outside walls of the Patent Office have access to it.

The Patent Office is, however, publish most applications 18 months after the date of filing application. Each member of the public may request a copy of the application once it has been published. But note, if your request is granted, your invention is protected, since the date you submit your request.

As you can see, the patent system is designed to allow you to actually begin manufacturing and marketing your invention immediately after you submit your application.

Many companies spend enormous sums to develop their new products. So it makes sense that they are for their patent as soon as possible, and the marketing of their products immediately. In this way they can 'milk' their patent monopoly for the longest time possible. A utility patent usually lasts only 17 years from the date of the patent application was filed, so there really no sense in letting this go to waste.

You may or may not need to use the term "patent pending". If you wait until the patent is actually granted your invention to market, you may also waive the term "patent pending". Instead, once your patent is granted, you can use your official patent number along with your product and any promotional information related to it.

Please check www.PatentYourInventions.com to learn more about the patenting and marketing your invention.

Lisa A. Parmley - Patent Agent
Intellectual Properties Enterprises, Inc