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A patent expired for a device. I improved it drastically. Can I patent my new device and be protected?

Asked in Newport Beach, CA - about 1 year

I found a basic patent for a device from 1990. I developed a new device with great improvements and updated for technological advances but its utility is identical in purpose to the original device.

Attorney Answers (4)

Michael Alan Shimokaji

Michael Alan Shimokaji

Irvine Intellectual Property Law Attorney

Licensed in CA

Answered about 1 year ago. Whether you can patent your new device depends on whether 1) someone else has previously made the same invention or, if not, whether 2) your invention is an obvious design in view of what has been invented before your invention.

Simply because your invention and the old design have the same utility does not necessarily mean you cannot get a patent. However, the more changes and more improvements you have made over the old design improves the likelihood of you getting a patent.

Michael
www.accessipgroup.com
The answer provided is only for general information purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
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Xavier S Pillai

Xavier S Pillai

Chicago Patent Application Attorney

Answered about 1 year ago. Yes, you can patent the new device as long as the improved device is novel and is not obvious over the previous device itself (e.g., common sense improvement) or in combination with other devices or disclosures in patents. If your improvement has something unexpected or superior property or advantage, that would certainly help. Utility may be the same but its performance can be better, e.g., greater efficicency. Please work with a patent attorney in determining whether it would be possible to patent it. Good Luck!
The foregoing does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship exists between me and you. Please... more
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1 comment

Gerry J. Elman

Gerry J. Elman

Media Patent Application Attorney

Answered about 1 year ago. What you describe is a good example of what the patent system is Constitutionally mandated to do .... promote the progress of useful arts. Find a patent attorney you like and .. go to town.
This posting is intended for general education and isn't "legal advice." It doesn't create or evidence an... more
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Adam Gregory Masserang

Adam Gregory Masserang

Ann Arbor Estate Planning Attorney

Answered about 1 year ago. In addition to agreeing with what these other attorneys have said, I would add that there is a time limit for filing the application. It would be best to consult an attorney sooner rather than later.
This answer is provided based on limited facts and does not create an attorney-client relationship, nor should it... more
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