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Simple English definitions for legal terms
invention
Read a random definition: alternative contingent remainder
A quick definition of invention:
An invention is something new that someone creates using their own skills and creativity. It can be a device, process, or improvement on something that already exists. To be considered an invention, it must be unique and not obvious to others. Inventions can be patented, which means that the person who created it has exclusive rights to use and profit from it. Some examples of inventions include machines, designs, and even new uses for existing inventions.
A more thorough explanation:
Definition: An invention is a patentable device or process that is created through independent effort and characterized by an extraordinary degree of skill or ingenuity. It can also refer to the act or process of creating such a device or process. In general, anything that is created or devised can be considered an invention.
Examples:
- A new type of smartphone that has never been seen before.
- A machine that can automatically sort and package items based on their size and weight.
- A process for creating a new type of plastic that is stronger and more durable than existing plastics.
These examples illustrate the definition of invention because they are all patentable devices or processes that were created through independent effort and required a high degree of skill or ingenuity to develop.
In addition, an invention can also refer to:
- Distinct invention: One part of an invention that can be used on its own, and the absence of which will not prevent the remainder of the invention from working.
- Improvement invention: A nontrivial and nonobvious betterment of an existing device or process.
- New-use invention: Discovery of a new use for an existing invention.
- Software-based invention: A device or machine that uses innovative software to achieve results.
These additional examples show that an invention can take many forms and can involve improving upon existing inventions or discovering new uses for them.