Patents can be powerful tools, yet any scientist who has experience with them knows how difficult patents can be to create. A patent’s legal requirements, detailed descriptions, claims, and drawing sections can present a daunting challenge for those used to communicating their work through research articles. Creating Effective Patents is the most recent chapter published […]
Patents can be powerful tools, yet any scientist who has experience with them knows how difficult patents can be to create. A patent’s legal requirements, detailed descriptions, claims, and drawing sections can present a daunting challenge for those used to communicating their work through research articles.
Creating Effective Patents is the most recent chapter published in the ACS Guide to Scholarly Communication. This chapter serves as a useful starting point for scientists and inventors with patentable ideas, demystifying the process through relevant real-world examples, definitions, infographics, and links to useful resources.
Authored by Xavier Pillai, J.D., Ph.D., an experienced scientist, patent attorney, and inventor, the chapter offers readers an introduction into the complex world of patents, whether they are interested in searching, reading, or getting started with writing one of their own.
The new chapter provides useful information on the following topics:
- The various types of patents and their uses.
- Guidance for searching through patent literature.
- Helpful insights and best practices for writing and filing patent applications.
- Effective techniques for communicating with patent offices.
- Rights and obligations of inventors and patent holders.
The chapter breaks down the parts of a patent document and how they are assembled, using layman’s terms to help the reader understand important legal requirements and the tools they will need to navigate the application process. Common pitfalls and useful reminders for the reader are included throughout.
The chapter also includes additional context beyond the patent application, including advice on conducting prior art searches, how applications are examined and assessed, and differences between patents in various countries around the globe.
The ACS Guide to Scholarly Communication provides students, researchers, educators, and librarians with the instruction and advice they need to master the art of scholarly communication beyond the scientific journal. With the valuable guidance and examples provided in this newest ACS Guide chapter, readers can learn to prepare and maintain stronger patents, enhancing the value of their work and creating new opportunities for innovation.