Handy official guide explains functions of the Patent and Trademark Office, describes a patent, defines such terms as "patent pending" and "patent applied for," discusses patent law, explains what can be patented and the process of registering patents, describes filing fees, and much else — all in simple, easy-to-understand language.
It's OK for a quick read This little booklet provides the most basic information about patents. I bought it thinking that it would be a good thing to supply new employees at my company. Although I think it is OK in terms of content (nothing particularly bad), I am not sure that there is anything interesting enough here to get anyone to really read through it. Most of this information can be found on-line and up to date from government websites. Although I have not checked, it would not surprise me to find this very information as it was created by the USPTO. Unless you are keen to have things in bound form, there really is no need to own this book.
Book Review An easy read.... this book gives a quick introduction to intellectual property rights and application procedures. Not nearly as helpful as some other, thicker, "How to" books.
A convenient concise OVERVIEW This is quick 85-page overview of the patent process. It provides the key steps, requirements, and definitions in very plain terms (almost in the same style of language as the IRS's 1040EZ instructions). However, it steers clear from giving ADVICE. If you need advice, try Patent It Yourself, from Nolo Press. Some of the information in this slim volume can be found at http://www.uspto.gov/. But this book brings it together in a very convenient and affordable package. It is worth the modest price!
A Good Introduction This book offers a simple, straightforward interoduction to patent law. If you are starting from scratch, this is a good place to start. There isn't much "how to" in this book, so it's probably best for someone who plans to work with a patent lawyer or service.
Obsolete book This book gives a decent description of patents, but it's out of date. For example, it says the head of the patent office is called "Commissioner" when that was changed and the head is called "Director" and the "Commissioner" is actually the third in rank (second is "Deputy Director"). The book says the USPatent Office handles 200,000 patent applications, but the number is actually closer to 300,000. There have been significant changes in the patent laws such as publication of applications, 20 year terms, WTO related provisions, NAFTA related provisions, WIPO and PCT related provisions, etc. that do not appear. So, take this book as background information only and know that in many instances it is obsolete. Recognize that patents are not a "do-it-yourself" activity if you want decent protection. See a patent attorney if you want accurate, up to date advice and worthwhile coverage. Stay away from the invention submission/promotion companies.
Bruce Burdick, Registered Patent Attorney No. 27,422
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