What are the four categories of inventions eligible for patent protection under 35 U.S.C. 101?
According to MPEP 2104, the four categories of inventions eligible for patent protection under 35 U.S.C. 101 are:
- Processes
- Machines
- Manufactures
- Compositions of matter
The MPEP states: “35 U.S.C. 101 enumerates four categories of subject matter that Congress deemed to be appropriate subject matter for a patent: processes, machines, manufactures and compositions of matter.” These categories define the scope of patentable subject matter under U.S. patent law.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2100 - Patentability,
MPEP 2104 - Requirements Of 35 U.S.C. 101,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure