When we hear the word “invention”, the first thing to come to mind is usually images of new and innovative gadgets. We often think of inventions as being easily identifiable, tangible objects geared towards making our lives easier.
While it’s true that the nature of invention is to improve, refine or even reinvent the way we do things, it’s not always immediately obvious when we’re benefiting from someone’s invention.
A commonly overlooked area of innovation is the advances made in the world of materials, such as the invention of a chemical process or the development of altogether new.
With the development of any new invention or idea comes the need to protect the inventor’s hard work. Especially in the realm of chemical process invention or the composition of new materials, many years of research and testing may be involved.
Without the protection of a patent, inventors are at risk of having others benefit (and profit) from their labors without fair credit.
Innovations involving new or re-engineered materials can be protected in various ways.
Composition of matter claims protect new, or significantly altered materials.
An inventive use claim would protect innovations in the way existing materials are used. Process claims protect the interests of inventors who develop new ways of creating or working with materials.
A brand new material, such as a new synthetic, could fall under the “composition of matter” category. Whether it’s a new blend of fabrics to create an altogether new fabric, or a new mixture of metals forming a revolutionary alloy, composition of matter inventions can have a profound impact on the way things are done.
Changes in manufacturing processes can sometimes lead to significant changes in the material being produced, sometimes even enhancing its traits and qualities.
Coming up with new ways to use known materials can also be protected under patent. While many materials are only used in very specific ways, there are often other potential applications that simply never occur to people.
These discoveries can often occur by accident. A person using a material in a new way to temporarily solve a problem could open the doors to a wealth of possible applications that were simply never considered before.
After coming up with an innovative idea about the use of a known material, an inventor can apply for a patent to protect the new process invention.
The actual chemical process used to manufacture materials can also be protected by patent laws. An innovator who devises a more effective or cost efficient way to manufacture a known material can file for a patent to protect his work.
The invention of a chemical process could include things such as new base ingredients, altered methods of treating materials, even adjusting variables such as heat levels or reaction times.
The process of inventing a chemical process takes a lot of work and specific knowledge, which is why it’s critical for an inventor to protect his efforts by applying for a patent.
There are often no clear boundaries between the various categories. A chemical process invention concerning the manufacture of an existing material could lead to the creation of an altogether new one.
New ways of using existing matter could lead to innovations in which materials are used in its manufacture.
Regardless of category, the process of inventing new processes or materials can be time-consuming, labor intensive and extremely rewarding.