Real-Life Communication
You work in the biotechnology department at the patent office. Your
area of expertise is the altering of plants to make them more resilient to
cold temperatures. Your training and experience have taught you a lot.
But
there are two very important points you must consider every time you review
a new patent application. Is the process or device truly new and unique? And
is its representation in the application clearly presented so as to avoid
any confusion with existing patents?
You must continually go back to
the company or individual to check on confusing points. In fact, most such
applications are returned for clarification.
Today, you have received
an application for a process to genetically alter barley seeds. The result
is a seed that can be planted earlier and a plant that can stay in the ground
and survive the first frost.
You need to be absolutely certain you
understand the process before you can begin a search for prior patents. You
send an e-mail to a friend who teaches in the science department of a highly
respected university. In it, you ask for a chance to meet with someone who
can verify your understanding of the general principles in the patent application.
Your
friend replies with the name of an esteemed professor who may want to help.
He promises to speak with him first and tell him about what you want. You
are aware of the fact that you cannot disclose details of a patent application
in progress. You must approach the professor and ask for help carefully.
"An
examiner requires the ability to communicate clearly and effectively in writing
in order to prepare reports and briefs containing justifications and rationales,"
says patent examiner Bruce Brown.
"Certain applications require more
extensive review and research and this can be a challenge. These applications
entail in-depth study and hours of reading and researching."
How would
you word this letter? Remember that you cannot specify what the patent application
is about except in general terms.