FAQs Patent Questions

Question:Is there any danger that the USPTO will give others information contained in my application while it is pending?

Answer:
Most patent applications filed on or after November 29, 2000, will be published 18 months after the filing date of the application, or any earlier filing date relied upon under Title 35, United States Code. Otherwise, all patent applications are maintained in the strictest confidence until the patent is issued or the application is published. After the application has been published, however, a member of the public may request a copy of the application file.

Question:Does your USPTO database include data on the current fee status and expiration of patents?

Answer:
No, the US Patent Full Text Database does not include this data, but it is available on the PTO Web site. Use the link to the Patent Application Information Retrieval database (PAIR) on the Web database main page.

Question:What is the difference between a utility patent and a design patent?

Answer:
A utility patent may be granted to anyone who invents or discovers any new and useful process, machine, article of manufacture, compositions of matter, or any new useful improvement thereof. A design patent may be granted to anyone who invents a new, original, and ornamental design for an article of manufacture.

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