What are the benefits of using the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)?
The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) offers several benefits to applicants, with the primary benefit being time delay. The MPEP states: “An applicant who uses the Patent Cooperation Treaty gains the benefit of: The time delay is, however, the benefit most often recognized as primary.“
This time delay allows applicants to:
- Evaluate the potential market for their invention
- Assess the invention’s technical merit
- Determine the likelihood of obtaining patent protection
- Arrange for funding or licensing
Additionally, the PCT provides a streamlined filing process for seeking patent protection in multiple countries, potentially reducing initial costs and providing a stronger basis for international patent prosecution.
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