As we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary and Presidents’ Day, it is a good time to reflect on our nation’s birth, and the legal institutions the founders worked to establish. The founding generation understood that independence required much more than separation from the British Crown. Independence required durable national systems that could support economic growth, encourage innovation, and operate across … Read More
Patent Drawings: Why They’re Easier Than Ever to Get Right
Patent drawings sit at the intersection of law, engineering, and technical writing. They translate an idea into something a patent examiner or juror can quickly understand, and they often determine how broadly—or narrowly—an invention receives protection. While many inventors still think of drawings as mechanical sketches, modern patent practice tells a broader story. Today’s drawings explain physical structures, system architecture, … Read More
The Written Description Requirement: Staking Your Claim
Nevada earned its nickname, the Silver State, because generations of prospectors, miners and settlers knew what it meant to stake a claim. They walked the land, marked boundaries, filed their notices, and documented their property rights with precision. The process was not symbolic. It determined ownership. The written description requirement under 35 U.S.C. §112(a) works the same way. When you … Read More
Do You Need A Prototype?
Many inventors believe that building a working prototype is the first step toward protecting and commercializing their invention. While a prototype can be extremely helpful, it is not always necessary—and it certainly doesn’t have to be perfect. Understanding when and why to build one can save you time, money, and frustration. Is a Prototype Required for a Patent Application? In … Read More
Thinking Ahead By Adding Alternative Embodiments
When drafting a patent application, the best way to protect an invention is to describe alternative embodiments. Alternative embodiments are variations, modifications, or different implementations of the same inventive concept. They expand the scope of protection and make it harder for competitors to design around your invention. Competitors constantly look for ways to “design around” issued patents. Designing around means … Read More
Understanding Design Patents
When people think of patents, they often picture complex machines or breakthrough pharmaceuticals. But not all inventions are about how something works. Sometimes, it’s about how it looks. That’s where design patents come in. Design patents protect the ornamental appearance of a product rather than its structure or function. For many businesses, especially those in consumer products, electronics, or fashion, … Read More
Continuing Education
The Thornton Firm will be closed from Thursday, July 27 through Monday, July 31 for purposes of continuing education. Scott will be attending the National Association of Patent Practitioners’ annual meeting in San Jose, CA at the Silicon Valley satellite office of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Our goal is to gain new insights and greater knowledge of … Read More
Have a Blast on Independence Day!
The Thornton Firm celebrates 241 years of American independence. Just as we salute those who fought to bring forth a new nation, we celebrate the spirit of innovation which keeps this great nation moving forward. From the lights of Las Vegas to all points beyond, America is still a home for big ideas and big dreams. But perhaps we should … Read More
Remembering Those Who Served
Memorial Day is more than just a three-day party kicking off the start of summer. It’s about taking some time to remember and reflect on the lives of those who have served, fought and even laid down their lives to defend our United States of America. It is about honoring those who fought for a cause bigger than themselves. Our … Read More
Holiday Greetings
As the year winds down and our attention turns to family and all things warm, The Thornton Firm would like to wish everyone a joyous and safe holiday. May the spirit of the season bring you comfort and happiness, and may your new year bring good health and prosperity. Cheers!
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