Definition: Disclosure is an intellectual property term that means one of two things.
- A disclosure is any public distribution of information about an invention, by print, demonstrations, or other means.
- Disclosure also refers to any part of a patent application process where the inventor discloses details about his invention. An adequate disclosure would let a person skilled in the area of your invention reproduce or use your invention.
Tips on Disclosure in a Patent Application
Individuals having a duty of disclosure are limited to those who are "substantively involved in the preparation or prosecution of the application", for example: inventors and patent attorneys. This is intended to make clear that the disclosure duty does not extend to typists, clerks, and similar personnel who assist with an application.The duty of disclosure applies to your patent application and extends to any proceedings before the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences and the Office of the Commissioner for Patents.
All disclosures with the Patent and Trademark Office should be transacted in writing not oral.
Also Known As: Disclosed
Examples: In return for a patent, the inventor gives as consideration a complete revelation or disclosure of the invention which protection is sought.
