The process of Patent Registration in India is governed by the Patents Act, 1970, and is administered by the Controller General of Patents, Designs, and Trademarks. A patent grants exclusive rights to an inventor or assignee for a novel invention, preventing others from making, using, or selling the invention without permission. Below is a step-by-step guide to obtaining a patent in India:
Step: Ensure that your invention meets the criteria for patentability:
Novelty: The invention must be new and not previously disclosed.
Inventive Step: It should involve an inventive step that is not obvious to someone skilled in the field.
Industrial Applicability: The invention must be capable of being used in some industry.
Exclusions: Certain inventions are not patentable, including abstract ideas, mathematical methods, and natural phenomena.
Step: Perform a prior art search to check if similar patents or inventions exist. This helps in assessing the novelty of the invention and refining the patent application.
Where to Search: You can search the Indian Patent Office’s database or consult a patent attorney for a more thorough search.
Step: Draft a patent application, which includes:
Title of Invention: A brief and specific title.
Abstract: A summary of the invention.
Description: Detailed description of the invention, including drawings or diagrams if necessary.
Claims: Define the scope of the patent protection sought.
Drawings: Provide visual representations of the invention, if applicable.
Types of Applications:
Provisional Application: Filed if the invention is not fully developed but requires protection. This provides a priority date and allows 12 months to file a complete application.
Complete Application: Filed when the invention is fully developed. It should include all details and claims.
Step: Submit the patent application to the Indian Patent Office. The application can be filed online through the IP India portal (https://ipindia.gov.in) or physically at the Patent Office.
Documents Required:
Patent Application Form (Form 1).
Provisional or Complete Specification (Form 2).
Drawings (if applicable) and their associated forms.
Abstract of the invention.
Power of Attorney (if filed through an agent).
Fee Payment: Pay the prescribed application fee based on the type of applicant (individual, small entity, or others). Fees vary depending on the type of application and the number of claims.
Step: Upon submission, you will receive an Application Number and Filing Date. This is essential for tracking the status of your application.
Step: After 18 months from the filing date, the patent application is published in the Patent Journal. This publication makes the details of the invention available to the public.
Early Publication: You can request early publication by filing Form 9, which speeds up the process if needed.
Step: File a Request for Examination (Form 18) within 48 months from the filing date or priority date. This initiates the process of patent examination by the Patent Office.
Fee Payment: Pay the examination fee along with the request.
Step: An Examiner from the Patent Office reviews the application to ensure it meets all patentability criteria and complies with legal requirements.
Examination Report: The examiner issues an Examination Report (First Examination Report or FER) highlighting any objections or deficiencies.
Response to Objections: You must address objections raised in the FER within the stipulated time (usually 6 months). Submit a response or amendments to the claims if necessary.
Step: If objections are not resolved through written responses, a hearing may be scheduled where you present your case before the Controller.
Step: If the Patent Office is satisfied with the application and responses, a Patent is granted. You will receive a Patent Certificate confirming the grant of the patent.
Publication of Grant: The patent grant is published in the Patent Journal, and the patent is officially recorded.
Step: Pay annual renewal fees to keep the patent valid. Renewal fees are due each year from the 2nd year onwards until the 20th year of the patent.
Step: Once granted, enforce your patent rights against unauthorized use or infringement. You may seek legal remedies through court proceedings if necessary.
Patent Application Form (Form 1).
Provisional or Complete Specification (Form 2).
Drawings (if applicable).
Abstract of the invention.
Power of Attorney (if filed through an agent).
Fee Payment Proof.
Patent registration is crucial for protecting innovations and ensuring exclusive rights to your invention. The process can be complex and time-consuming but is essential for securing a competitive edge in the market. Given the technicalities involved, especially in drafting claims and responding to examination reports, consulting a patent attorney or agent can be highly beneficial. A granted patent not only protects your intellectual property but also adds value to your business by preventing others from copying or using your invention without permission.