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LSDefine
Simple English definitions for legal terms
new-use invention
Read a random definition: Cairns's Act
A quick definition of new-use invention:
A new-use invention is when someone discovers a new way to use something that already exists. If the new use is clever and useful, it can be protected by a patent. For example, if someone found a new way to use a hammer that nobody had thought of before, they could get a patent for it. However, the new use must be something that is not obvious to others.
A more thorough explanation:
A new-use invention is a discovery of a new use for an existing invention. This means that someone has found a new way to use something that already exists. As long as the new use is not obvious and is actually useful, it can be patented.
- A company invents a new type of adhesive that is strong and long-lasting. Later, someone discovers that the adhesive can also be used to create a new type of bandage that is more effective than traditional bandages. This new use for the adhesive can be patented as a new-use invention.
- A scientist discovers that a drug that was originally developed to treat one disease can also be used to treat a different disease. This new use for the drug can be patented as a new-use invention.
These examples illustrate how a new-use invention is a discovery of a new way to use something that already exists. As long as the new use is not obvious and is actually useful, it can be patented.