Patent question

[businessor]

Hello

Can I patent a novel use of an existing technology after scaling it up?

Also, is it necessary to explain in detail the technology or it is enough to say that any of the available technologies can be utilised?

Thanks!

 

[The Byre]

The answer will be probably yes to both - depending on the details.

 

[Chris Ashdown]

Sony was not able to patent the walkman (old pocket tape recorder) as it was just using existing technology and not a innovative invention

 

[DontAsk]

Hello

Can I patent a novel use of an existing technology after scaling it up?

Yes, so long as it is not "obvious to someone skilled in the art"

Also, is it necessary to explain in detail the technology

Yes. The whole point of a patent (historically at least) is to share knowledge and encourage innovation. In return you get time-limited exclusive rights to exploit or license the innovation.

If you are worried about not being able to defend the patent, having disclosed, then a patent may not be for you.

 

[Mr D]

Hello

Can I patent a novel use of an existing technology after scaling it up?

Also, is it necessary to explain in detail the technology or it is enough to say that any of the available technologies can be utilised?

Thanks!

If you don't explain in detail then how would you defend it from someone claiming to be doing something different from you using the same method?
Leave a big hole, expect people to fill it themselves with different patents.

 

[JamesR45]

Also, be sure it is indeed 'novel'. If there is an instance of your particular use-case being in the public domain before you make your application, then even if you gain the patent, you may struggle to defend it.

 

[prophet01]

@businessor
Less than four years ago I was in a similar positon as you with little idea of the intricacies surrounding patents and the patenting process and received much valuable guidance and information from members of UKBF, for which I will be eternally grateful.

It might be worth reading that thread at this link
Patent application drafting & filing costs

If you have confidence in your idea I suggest that you develop your invention sufficiently to be able to present it to several patent attorneys to obtain a definitive view of its patentability, patent robusteness and quotations for their services in attempting to secure a patent.

The UK Intellectual Property Office issued a Certificate of Grant of Patent for my invention a few months ago.