Tell me about Patent Search International
PSI is one of the largest independent patent search organizations in the United States. It was founded in 1974 by Mr. Ronald Brown. Prior to 1985, most of PSI’s work was done for attorneys and businesses.
Mr. Brown, the chief executive officer of PSI, has worked hand-in-hand with states attorneys offices throughout the country to shut down unethical inventor Rip-Off companies. Through this he saw a need to provide honest, inexpensive help to the inventor. Therefore, PSI is now offering its services to the general public.
How do I know PSI wont tell somebody else about my invention
Before you reveal your invention to PSI, you are provided with a signed Statement of Confidentiality and Non- use. This is a legally binding agreement which prevents PSI from revealing your invention to anybody without your permission. In addition, every employee of PSI has signed a state of confidentiality and non-use with regard to any material they come in contact with in the course of their work with PSI.
How much will PSI’s Service cost me.
PSI’s fee is $250.00 per search which includes both US and foreign patents, and a legal opinion of patentability
Why is a patent search Necessary?
A patent search is the first step in obtaining a patent. The patent attorney bases his patentability opinion on the patent search. If someone else has patented an invention that is similar to yours or, as the patent examiners say, anticipates your invention, then you are not entitled to patent protection. A patent search reveals whether or not such prior anticipation exists and allows the patent attorney to reach an informed conclusion.
What is the reason for the patentability opinion from an independent registered patent attorney?
The patent attorney examines the results of the search conducted by PSI and tells you his opinion on whether or not you are likely to get patent protection. He specializes in patent law and his independent status assures an unbiased judgement.
Are there any costs to me after I pay for the patent search and patentability opinion if the opinion indicates that my idea patentable.
No.
What if my idea is patentable?
If the patentability opinion indicates that you may be entitled to patent protection and you wish to obtain a patent, you will have to pay the Patent Office filing fees and the patent attorney’s fees for filing the application.
Why is patent protection necessary?
If you get a patent on your invention, it prevents anybody or any company from making or selling your invention for 17 years unless you give someone permission to do so. This permission is called licensing. Generally a licensing agreement provides that you will receive a certain amount of money for each unit made or sold by the person you have licensed; this is called royalties.
If I have more questions, what can I do
Send your questions to Mister Patent@aol.com or Please call PSI at (410) 987-4511 during normal business hours. We will be happy to set up a no-cost, no-obligation appointment for you to come in and talk with us.
What happens if the patent attorney’s opinion is that my idea is not patentable?
Then you have spent a small amount of money to know that you cannot obtain protection. If you choose to disclose or manufacture your invention, then anyone can copy it without financial obligation to you.