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US006651217B1 (54) United States Patent (10) Patent N0.: Kennedy et al. (12) (45) Date of Patent: SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POPULATING US 6,651,217 B1 Nov. 18, 2003 OTHER PUBLICATIONS XIIRYSSWITH PREVIOUSLY

How to fill out a poor mans patent

How to fill out a poor man's patent:

1. Gather all relevant information: Start by brainstorming and documenting your invention or idea. This includes detailed descriptions, drawings or diagrams, and any other supporting materials that explain your concept.
2. Research existing patents: It's crucial to conduct a thorough search to ensure that your idea is novel and doesn't infringe on any existing patents. Various online databases and resources can assist you in this process.
3. Document your invention in writing: Begin by creating a written description of your invention, including its purpose, functionality, and any unique features it possesses. Be as detailed and specific as possible to ensure a comprehensive representation of your idea.
4. Create diagrams or drawings: Visual aids are important in conveying your invention's design or structure. Use diagrams or drawings to illustrate various aspects and key elements of your invention. These visuals should supplement the written description.
5. Complete a poor man's patent form: While a poor man's patent is not a legally recognized form of patent protection, it can serve as evidence of your invention's conception date. Prepare a document that includes all the relevant details of your invention, similar to what would be included in a patent application.
6. Sign and date the form: Make sure to sign and date the poor man's patent form in front of a witness who can attest to your signature's authenticity. This witness should also sign and date the document.
7. Store the document safely: Keep a copy of the poor man's patent form in a secure location like a safe or a locked file cabinet. Additionally, consider sending a copy to yourself through registered mail, keeping the unopened envelope as further evidence.

Who needs a poor man's patent:

1. Inventors on a limited budget: A poor man's patent can be a cost-effective way for inventors who cannot afford the expenses associated with obtaining a formal patent.
2. Inventors seeking initial protection: While a poor man's patent does not provide legal protection like a formal patent, it can establish proof of your conception date. This may dissuade others from copying or stealing your idea.
3. Inventors testing the market: If you are unsure about pursuing a formal patent or need to gauge the market's interest before investing substantial resources, a poor man's patent can provide temporary protection while you assess the viability of your invention.

Remember, seeking advice from a patent attorney is always recommended to fully understand the best course of action based on your specific circumstances.

For pdfFiller’s FAQs

What is a poor mans patent?

A poor man's patent is a method for inventors to quickly and cheaply establish a priority date for their invention by documenting their idea in a sealed envelope and mailing it to themselves.

Who is required to file a poor mans patent?

Any individual or business with an invention idea can file a poor man's patent to establish a priority date for their invention.

How to fill out a poor mans patent?

To fill out a poor man's patent, simply write a detailed description of your invention, place it in a sealed envelope, and mail it to yourself. Keep the envelope unopened to serve as evidence of the invention date.

What is the purpose of a poor mans patent?

The purpose of a poor man's patent is to provide inventors with a low-cost way to establish a priority date for their invention without having to file a formal patent application.

What information must be reported on a poor mans patent?

A poor man's patent should include a detailed description of the invention, any drawings or sketches that help illustrate the idea, and the date it was sealed and mailed.

Can I sign the a poor mans patent electronically in Chrome?

Yes. By adding the solution to your Chrome browser, you may use pdfFiller to eSign documents while also enjoying all of the PDF editor's capabilities in one spot. Create a legally enforceable eSignature by sketching, typing, or uploading a photo of your handwritten signature using the extension. Whatever option you select, you'll be able to eSign your a poor mans patent in seconds.

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