Woody has invented a method for instantly analyzing perfume, breaking it down into its component chemicals and reproducing the scent.He is so excited about his invention, he wants to tell the world.Which of the following examples of disclosure would be potentially fatal to a patent claim?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Disclosing the invention to potential buyers or customers can be seen as a public disclosure, potentially invalidating the possibility of obtaining a patent. It is important to keep the invention confidential until a patent application is filed.

Answer: C
 Seeking legal advice on how to patent an invention is generally safe, as long as the disclosure is made under the protection of attorney-client privilege. However, it is important to make sure that the lawyer is bound by confidentiality and that the disclosure is made before any public disclosure.

Answer: D
 Disclosing the invention to an employee under a signed confidentiality agreement can be a safe option, as long as the agreement is properly drafted and executed. It is important to make sure that the employee understands the importance of keeping the information secret and that the disclosure is necessary to carry out their job functions.

Answers A and E are not necessarily fatal to a patent claim, but they are not foolproof methods of keeping the invention secret. It is always better to err on the side of caution and keep the invention confidential until a patent application is filed.

Woody Has Invented a Method for Instantly Analyzing Perfume, Breaking