Invention Disclosures: Going Beyond the Basics
Invention Disclosures: Going Beyond the Basics
Grace Schulz, Operations Manager and Patent Agent
You have a groundbreaking idea—now what? As you prepare an invention disclosure or discuss your idea with a patent professional, knowing what details will help set your invention apart and increase your chances of securing a strong patent is important. Here are some tips to help you cover the bases and boost your patent’s potential long-term value.
Spotlight the Unique Features: It's easy to focus on the basic mechanics of your invention—the materials, how it’s constructed, and how it works—but don’t stop there. What truly sets your invention apart from what's already out there? Whether you're innovating a product or developing a novel method, be sure to highlight the key features or steps that make your invention one-of-a-kind. Are there specific components that distinguish it from similar devices? Or does your method include critical steps that no one else has thought of? Including clear, detailed drawings can help illustrate these innovations.
Share the Story Behind the Innovation: Don’t just describe the end product—walk through the process of creation. What technical challenges did you overcome in developing the invention? What was the breakthrough moment when things started to come together? If your approach defies conventional wisdom, explain why it works. Did you identify a flaw or gap in the existing solutions that others missed? By showing how your invention solves a problem in a new and non-obvious way, you'll provide powerful evidence for why your idea is both novel and inventive.
Think Beyond the "Ideal" Design: While you may have a preferred embodiment of your invention, it’s important to cover other options. Could it be made from different materials? Could you implement alternative structures, or perhaps adjust the key steps in the method? What other configurations might your competitors use to achieve a similar outcome? Thinking through these variations can broaden your patent coverage and can also help cover future changes in the market or technology.
Why This Matters: Providing a rich, detailed disclosure isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about giving your patent professional the tools to draft a robust application. The more insight you provide into your invention, the easier it becomes to highlight its benefits, reduce risks, and ultimately help position you with a higher-value patent for the long-run.
Questions: Reach out, we’re available to assist – grace@mlo-ip.com.