Legal Definitions - Jepson claim

A Jepson claim is a specific format used in patent law to clearly define and distinguish the novel (new and inventive) aspects of an invention from what is already known in the public domain (referred to as "prior art"). This claim structure helps patent examiners and the public quickly understand what the inventor considers to be their unique contribution.

A Jepson claim typically begins by describing the known technology or process that the invention improves upon. This is followed by a transitional phrase, most commonly "wherein the improvement comprises" or "characterized by," which then introduces the specific new features, elements, or steps that constitute the actual invention.

• Example 1: Improved Bicycle Lock

  Imagine a new bicycle lock design. A Jepson claim for this invention might read:

  "A bicycle lock comprising a shackle, a locking mechanism configured to secure the shackle, and a key for operating the locking mechanism, wherein the improvement comprises an integrated biometric scanner within the locking mechanism configured to authenticate a user's fingerprint for keyless unlocking."

  How it illustrates the term: The first part of the claim ("A bicycle lock comprising a shackle, a locking mechanism configured to secure the shackle, and a key for operating the locking mechanism") describes a standard, known bicycle lock. The phrase "wherein the improvement comprises" clearly signals that the subsequent text details the novel aspect – the integrated biometric scanner for keyless unlocking – which is the inventive step over existing technology.

• Example 2: Enhanced Food Preservation Method

  Consider a new technique for keeping produce fresh longer. A Jepson claim could be structured as follows:

  "A method for preserving fresh produce comprising the steps of washing the produce, drying the produce, and storing the produce in a refrigerated environment, wherein the improvement comprises applying an edible, antimicrobial coating derived from seaweed extract to the produce surface prior to storage."

  How it illustrates the term: The initial part of the claim outlines a conventional food preservation method (washing, drying, refrigeration). The phrase "wherein the improvement comprises" then introduces the specific, new, and inventive step: the application of an edible, antimicrobial seaweed-derived coating, which is the core of the invention.

• Example 3: Smart Home Lighting System

  For an advancement in smart home technology, a Jepson claim might state:

  "A smart home lighting system comprising a central controller, a plurality of light fixtures wirelessly connected to the controller, and a user interface for adjusting light settings, wherein the improvement is characterized by an ambient light sensor integrated into each light fixture, configured to autonomously adjust light intensity based on real-time natural light levels detected in the room."

  How it illustrates the term: The claim first describes a typical smart home lighting system with a controller, fixtures, and a user interface. The phrase "wherein the improvement is characterized by" then highlights the unique and inventive feature: the integration of ambient light sensors in each fixture for automatic, real-time adjustment based on natural light, differentiating it from existing systems that might only offer scheduled or manual adjustments.