What is the “Machine” category for patentable inventions?

A machine is one of the four general categories of patentable inventions, as defined by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The machine category, just as its name implies, includes any new or non-obvious mechanical apparatus. Inventions found in this particular category consist of devices intended to perform some kind of work, using interrelated parts with separate functions. The “machine” category has a minor, yet intended distinction from the closely related “articles of manufacture” category, in that machines are generally considered relatively complex inventions with a greater number of moving parts.

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The content of this article is not intended to be, and does not constitute, legal advice and does not create attorney-client privilege. Consult the attorney of your choice before embarking on any legal matter or any document preparation/filing.

Dr. Thomas R. (Terry) Williamson III is a Patent Attorney practicing in Atlanta, Georgia.

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