Legal Definitions - machine

In patent law, a machine refers to a tangible device or apparatus that consists of both stationary (fixed) and moving components. These parts are designed to operate together in a coordinated manner to perform a specific function or achieve a particular outcome. It is one of the primary categories of inventions that can be protected by a patent, alongside processes, manufactures, and compositions of matter.

Here are some examples illustrating what constitutes a machine in this legal context:

• Automated Espresso Machine: Consider a sophisticated espresso machine found in a café.
  • How it illustrates the term: This device has fixed parts such as its outer casing, water reservoir, and boiler. It also incorporates moving parts like the pump that pushes water, the brew group that compresses coffee grounds, and various valves. All these components, both fixed and moving, work in unison to heat water, extract flavor from coffee, and dispense a beverage. Its purpose-driven design with integrated moving and stationary elements makes it a clear example of a machine.
• Industrial Robotic Arm: Think of a multi-jointed robotic arm used on an automotive assembly line.
  • How it illustrates the term: The robotic arm has a fixed base securely mounted to the factory floor and a stationary control unit. Its moving parts include multiple articulated joints, motors, and a gripper or tool attachment at the end. These fixed and moving elements are precisely engineered to operate together, performing functions like welding, painting, or lifting heavy components with accuracy and repetition. This coordinated action of diverse parts to achieve a manufacturing task defines it as a machine.
• Residential Air Conditioning Unit: An outdoor air conditioning unit that cools a home.
  • How it illustrates the term: This unit includes fixed components like its protective casing, condenser coils, and electrical wiring. Its moving parts consist of a compressor, a fan, and various valves. These parts are interconnected and work together to circulate refrigerant, transfer heat from inside the house to the outside air, and cool the indoor environment. The combination of stationary and moving elements collaborating to perform the function of climate control makes it a machine.