What types of inventions are considered patentable?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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 , patentable inventions include: 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. This statute outlines four main categories of patentable subject matter: processes, machines, manufactures, and compositions of matter. Improvements to existing inventions in these categories may also be patentable. For more detailed information on what is not considered patentable, refer to MPEP §§ 2104 – 2109 and 2157 . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Requirement for New and Useful Inventions MPEP 2104 Permitted Requirement for Rejection Based on 35 U.S.C. 101 MPEP 2157 Exceptions to Patentable Subject Matter MPEP 2104 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 Four Requirements for Patentability Under 35 U.S.C. 101 MPEP 2104 Requirement for Identical Subject Matter Not Claimed in Multiple Patents MPEP 2104 Invention Must Be Patentable MPEP 2104 Required Requirement for Patent-Eligible Subject Matter MPEP 2104 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What are the requirements for naming inventors in a patent application under the AIA? What should an applicant do if they discover an error in the named inventors of a patent application? What is a derivation proceeding and how does it relate to improper naming of inventors? Can a patent examiner reject claims based on improper inventorship? What is pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(f) ...