What are the statutory categories for patentable inventions under 35 U.S.C. 101?
According to 35 U.S.C. 101, there are four statutory categories for patentable inventions:
- Process
- Machine
- Manufacture
- Composition of matter
The MPEP directly quotes the statute: “Whoever invents or discovers any new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, or any new and useful improvement thereof, may obtain a patent therefor, subject to the conditions and requirements of this title.” These categories define the types of inventions that are eligible for patent protection under U.S. law.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2100 - Patentability,
MPEP 2104 - Requirements Of 35 U.S.C. 101,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure