AI is based on computational models and mathematical algorithms which are per se of an abstract nature. Nevertheless, patents may be granted when AI leaves the abstract realm by applying it to solve a technical problem in a field of technology.
While AI can aid in generating ideas and solutions, the inventive concept must originate in part from human ingenuity. Human inventors must make substantial contributions to the invention that go beyond merely using AI tools. Otherwise, the invention is not eligible for patent protection.
The Patent Process Determine the type of intellectual property you need. Determine if your invention is patentable. Determine what kind of patent you need. Get ready to apply. Submit your application. Work with your examiner. Receive your approval. Maintain your patent.
For example, AI can take an attorney-written claim and generate a suitable title or summary. Make sure the AI tool generates contextually relevant content, understanding the specific requirements of each section of a patent application to fit seamlessly.
Format of a Patent Application The Specification. The Title. The Description. The Claims. The Drawings. The Abstract. Sample Specifications. Minimum Requirements for a Filing Date.
In 2022, the Federal Circuit established in its Thaler v. Vidal decision that only natural persons can be recognized as inventors under the U.S. Patent Act, thereby excluding AI systems from being listed as inventors on patent applications.
Technical Process: If a prompt is part of a broader technical process—such as a novel method for interacting with an AI system or a unique way of using the AI to achieve a particular technical result—then it may be eligible for patent protection.
To obtain patent protection, you will be required to publicly disclose how to make and use your AI model, which may be undesirable if your AI model is otherwise not publicly identifiable.
Prompts used for AI software can potentially have IPR protection, but the type of protection will vary: Patent law is unlikely to grant protection unless the prompt is part of a broader technical invention. Copyright law may protect creative prompts but not generic ones.