What are the statutory categories for patentable inventions under 35 U.S.C. 101?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. 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. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Four Requirements for Patentability Under 35 U.S.C. 101 MPEP 2104 Requirement for New and Useful Inventions MPEP 2104 Permitted Requirement for Utility Under 35 U.S.C. 101 MPEP 2104 Not All New and Useful Inventions Can Be Patented MPEP 2104 Invention Must Fall Within 35 U.S.C. 101 Categories MPEP 2104 Required Invention Must Fall Within Statutory Categories MPEP 2104 Claimed Invention Must Fall Within Statutory Categories and Be Directed to Patent-Eligible Subject Matter MPEP 2104 Required Single Patent Requirement for Same Invention MPEP 2104 Permitted Requirement for Identical Subject Matter Not Claimed in Multiple Patents MPEP 2104 Requirement for Unique Patents Per Invention MPEP 2104 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the four requirements imposed by 35 U.S.C. 101? How does 35 U.S.C. 101 relate to the other sections of patent law? How does the Atomic Energy Act affect patent eligibility? What are the four categories of inventions eligible for patent protection under 35 U.S.C. 101? What is the &#8220;one patent per invention&#8221; rule in 35 U.S.C. 101?