Engineering Patent Review

Describes patents and the patent process. It then, in Case Study I, examines all aspects of a patent assigned to a large U.S. corporation to improve performance of one of its products. It explains how four other patents examined as prior art were used to enhance the credibility of the sought after patent and how the three claims that were made skillfully protect against possible patent infringement. A twenty-two multiple choice question quiz follows.

Case Study II

Teaches both patent application and the important design and operating characteristics of two different types of anti-friction bearings. The patent application involves replacing conventionally used tapered roller bearing with angular contact ball bearings in a mechanical setting. It details important design features of both types of bearings and how it affects their installation and operation. Prior art (patents that are similar to the one being applied for) is examined and a conclusion drawn as to whether the patent application is to be allowed or denied. A twenty multiple choice question quiz follows.