How to apply for a patent and what is the process?

1. Determine the type of patent application: There are generally three types of patents, including inventions, utility models and designs. Different types of patent applications have different processes and requirements, so it is necessary to determine the patent type of application first.

2. Preparation of application materials: According to the type of patent application, corresponding application materials need to be prepared, including patent application, technical disclosure, claims, abstract and abstract drawings. Among them, the patent application is the basic document for applying for a patent, and it is necessary to provide the basic information of the applicant, the name of the invention, the technical field, the background technology, the content of the invention, the attached drawings, the specific implementation methods, etc.

3. Submit application: Submit the prepared application materials to China National Intellectual Property Administration or local intellectual property office. There are two submission methods: electronic application and paper application. You can choose the one that suits you.

4. Preliminary examination: China National Intellectual Property Administration or the local intellectual property office will conduct a preliminary examination on the submitted application, mainly focusing on the format, completeness and compliance with the provisions of the Patent Law. If problems are found, a correction notice will be issued, requiring the applicant to make corrections.

5. Substantive examination: For the patent application for invention and utility model, substantive examination is required, that is, whether the patented technology applied for is novel, creative and practical. If it passes the examination, a patent right shall be granted; If the review fails, a notice of rejection will be issued, requiring the applicant to modify or abandon the application.

6. Authorization and announcement: If the substantive examination passes, the China National Intellectual Property Administration or local intellectual property office will grant the patent right and make an announcement. The contents of the announcement include the grant of patent rights, claims, specifications, etc.

7. Payment and license: The applicant needs to pay the relevant fees within the specified time to obtain the patent certificate.