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We help inventors turn ideas into tangible assets. Filing a United States patent may seem like a daunting process, but here at FireCastle, we take care of it all. The patent process starts with a patent search and clearance opinion. From there, we help you work around any conflicts, if necessary. Then, when we are certain that your patent is registrable, we collect the necessary documentation and file your patent. After your patent has been filed, we monitor your application and respond to any USPTO communication. From filing to issuance, FireCastle provides our clients the confidence that your hard work is covered.
Patentability Search and Patent Value Opinion
Before you file, you MUST do a search
A patentability search and value opinion is a process used to determine whether a proposed invention or product infringes on any existing patents. The search involves looking for prior art, which includes any published information about the invention or similar inventions, to determine if the proposed invention is novel and non-obvious.
The value opinion process involves analyzing the results of the search to determine if the proposed invention can be patented without infringing on any existing patents. This process can be performed by a patent attorney or agent, or by using specialized patent search software.
Provisional Patent
Secure patent pending status
A provisional patent is a type of patent application filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that allows an inventor to establish an early effective filing date for a new invention. A provisional patent application is not examined by the USPTO and does not mature into an issued patent unless the inventor files a non-provisional patent application within one year of the provisional application's filing date.
The provisional patent application provides the inventor with a way to secure patent pending status for an invention and establish an early effective filing date, while allowing the inventor additional time to further develop and refine the invention before filing a non-provisional application.
Design Patent
Appearance Patent
A design patent is a type of patent issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that protects the ornamental design of an object. It covers the visual ornamental characteristics embodied in, or applied to, an article of manufacture.
Design patents are granted for new, original, and ornamental designs for an article of manufacture, which can include anything from a new design for a chair to a unique ornamental pattern on a surface. The term of a design patent is 15 years from the date of grant. Design patents are different from utility patents, which protect the functional aspects of an invention.
Utility Patent
Functionality Patent
A utility patent is a type of patent issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that protects the functional aspects of an invention, such as a new machine, process, or composition of matter. It covers the functional features of an invention.
Utility patents are granted for new, useful and non-obvious inventions or discoveries. The term of a utility patent is 20 years from the date of filing, subject to the payment of maintenance fees. Utility patents are different from design patents, which protect the ornamental design of an object.