Patent
Protecting inventions and novel processes.
3D Learning World
Interactive Visualizations
Topic Diagrams
What can and cannot be patented
Patentable subject matter vs exclusions.
Can Be Patented
- Machines
- Man-made products
- Compositions of matter
- Processing methods
- Software (since 1981)
- Plants (since 1930)
Cannot Be Patented
- Laws of nature
- Natural phenomena
- Abstract ideas
- Mathematical algorithms (alone)
- Obvious inventions
- Already-existing (prior art)
Patents can be granted for four types of inventions: machines, man-made products, compositions of matter, and processing methods. Software has been patentable since 1981 and plants since 1930. Three things cannot be patented: laws of nature, natural phenomena, and abstract ideas. A mathematical algorithm alone cannot be patented unless realised in a tangible machine or process.
Explanation: Patents can be granted for four types of inventions: machines, man-made products, compositions of matter, and processing methods. Software has been patentable since 1981 and plants since 1930. Three things cannot be patented: laws of nature, natural phenomena, and abstract ideas. A mathematical algorithm alone cannot be patented unless realised in a tangible machine or process.