Legal Definitions - abstract idea

Definition: An abstract idea is a concept or thought that is not tangible or physical. It is one of the categories of unpatentable subject matter, along with natural phenomena and laws of nature. However, a process that uses abstract ideas to produce a useful result can be patented. Copyright law only protects the expression of an abstract idea, not the idea itself. The law of unfair competition protects abstract ideas that meet the criteria of a trade secret.

Examples: A mathematical formula, a philosophical concept, or a theoretical idea are all examples of abstract ideas. For instance, the concept of gravity is an abstract idea that cannot be patented. However, a process that uses the concept of gravity to produce a new invention, such as a machine that generates electricity from gravity, can be patented.

Explanation: The examples illustrate that an abstract idea is a concept or thought that is not tangible or physical. They also show that an abstract idea cannot be patented, but a process that uses the idea to produce a useful result can be patented. For instance, the mathematical formula for calculating the area of a circle cannot be patented, but a process that uses the formula to design a new type of tire can be patented.