PROVIDING A DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN INVENTION PRIOR TO THE FILING OF A PATENT APPLICATION
Before a patent application is filed with the United States Patent & Trademark Office, it is important to produce a very detailed disclosure of the invention which will aid in the drafting of a patent application that will withstand scrutiny from a patent examiner. The detailed description should include:
FOR A NEW OR IMPROVED PRODUCT
A) Describe the structural elements/components
B) Describe step-by-step how the invention is contructed/assembled
C) Describe any interaction/cooperation of components, e.g. during use
D) Describe the environment in which the invention is intended for use
E) Describe the purpose/function of the invention.
FOR A NEW OR IMPROVED METHOD OF PROCESS
A) Describe the minimum number of steps required to carry out the method of the invention
B) Describe additional and/or alternative steps that may be included
C) For quantifiable variables (e.g. time, temperature, composition, et.) provide maximum and minimum values and/or value ranges, as well as preferrred values and/or value ranges.
D) Describe possible variations in the order of the method steps
E) Describe the purpose of the invention
FOR NEW SOFTWARE OR INTERNET-BASED BUSINESS METHODS
Provide a general flow chart of the overall process as well as detailed charts of all significant subroutines. Any available screen shots and tables should also be provided.
I recommend that you consult with a patent lawyer in order to draft a patent application that will meet the requirements set forth by the United States Patent & Trademark Office.