Chapter 6. Defining a Patent: The Problem, Solution, and Novelty

The most interesting part of being an inventor is to solve problems that have never been solved. Being able to clearly state the problem that an invention addresses is paramount in any invention case. When an inventor describes his or her invention, the very first item of discussion should be exactly what problem the invention addresses and solves. The next topic should be the solution the inventor is proposing, and finally the novelty (if it did not become clear in the solution description).

This chapter will address the art (perhaps a critical skill) of identifying problems, creating unique solutions, and being able to simply articulate the novelty of these solutions. The underlying theme in this chapter will surround subjects of innovation engineering. The “farming” of ideas will be explored in more detail, unlike what we have been discussing thus far in this book.