4 ms·

Year-to-file is obviously different than cannot-file.

• cromulent 17y ago
  It's in the same section. "if it was known or used by others in this country before the date that the applicant made his/her invention, a patent cannot be obtained". Mind you, they don't seem to apply this very consistently.
  • WalterGR 17y ago
    making an invention != disclosure != filing != obtaining a patent. I was originally pointing out a fact lest others be led astray, but I'm not going to reply further.
    • cromulent 17y ago
      I don't think anyone would doubt your inequation. However, 10ren's statement seems to be backed up pretty well by the USPTO site - if you have already gone public or sold your invention, no patent for you. I'm not sure why you think it is incorrect. Cheers
      • WalterGR 17y ago
        Rereading the thread, I think I misunderstood 10ren's point. I think we are all actually in vehement agreement. :) Apologies.