Patent a machine

Discover how to patent a machine for industrial or domestic use. Steps and costs included.

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How to Patent a Machine?

Patenting a machine for industrial use or a machine for domestic use is one of the most common requests we receive from inventors and companies at our invention development lab.

Objectives for Registering Machine Patents

The common innovation goals in innovative machine design are:

Maximize the productivity of a process.
Minimize the time required for unit productivity.
Minimize the costs associated with machine processes.
Minimize the required energy consumption.
Equip machines with portable features to reduce the space required for their use.

Patent Options for a Machine

Utility Models for Machines

Registering a utility model for a machine is a simple process, as the utility model is a method that does not require substantive examination. Therefore, over 90% of utility model registrations for machines are approved. However, the utility model is not a reliable method to patent a machine, as it is a weaker form of protection and does not guarantee the possibility of securing international patent rights in the future.

Invention Patent for Machines

The invention patents or utility patents in the United States are the most recommended method to patent a machine, whether for industrial or domestic use. This type of patent summarizes and undergoes technical evaluation of the main innovation claims, making its approval a sign of reliability and differentiation from similar existing machines.

Design Patent for Machines

In the machine design industry, better results are often achieved by modifying geometric elements related to the machine’s aesthetics. In such cases, a design patent is an excellent option, as it grants exclusive protection over the machine’s shape and appearance.

Machine Software Patents

When reviewing the background of software patents in the United States, the strongest legal defenses have been related to software patents embedded in industrial machines. When the specific software enables a machine to perform better than known alternatives, there is a strong likelihood of being able to obtain a software patent.

Preguntas frecuentes sobre patentes de máquinas

How much does it cost to patent a machine?

Patenting a machine can cost between $6,000 and $20,000. The variation in the cost of a machine patent is related to the number of existing machines that must be reviewed as prior art. In reality, the official fees to patent a machine do not vary based on technical complexity. The price difference lies in the patent attorney fees and the amount of time required to draft the patent documentation.

How long does it take to patent a machine?

The average time to patent a machine is between 6 and 12 months. In the United States, machine patents are typically processed in about 6 months on average, provided that special fast-track examination fees are paid.

What is the best place to file a machine patent?

The best place to patent a machine is the one where the product has the greatest potential, based on the market size that can benefit from its utility. To calculate the value of a patent, the most important variable is to assess the size of the industry and demonstrate the relevance of the innovation associated with the patent.

What is the best method to protect a machine?

The best method to protect a machine is through a utility patent or an invention patent. These are essentially the same method, with different names depending on the country where you intend to patent a machine.

Are you planning to patent a machine?

At Let’s Prototype, we work with patent offices and attorneys specialized in machine patents. We can also advise you on how to patent your machine in the European market, if that is where your target market is located.

Do you want to turn your idea into a product?

The time to bring your ideas to life is now. We accompany you throughout the entire process: from idea to product.

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