Improving a Product That Already Exists: How to Get a Patent
Learn how to patent an improvement on an existing product, including research, provisional applications, market validation, and legal considerations to ensure success. 6 min read updated on February 12, 2025
Key Takeaways:
- Improvement patents allow inventors to enhance existing products by adding new features, changing designs, or incorporating new technology.
- Patent research is crucial to ensure the improvement is novel, useful, and non-obvious.
- Provisional patents provide a 12-month period to refine and test the invention before filing a formal patent application.
- Market research helps determine whether an improvement has commercial value and competitive advantage.
- Legal considerations include potential infringement issues when modifying a patented product.
- Alternative protection methods, such as trademarks and trade secrets, can be useful for certain product improvements.
Learning how to patent an improvement on an existing product is a vital step toward marketability and premiums (see patent cost). If you own a patent, you have possession of a product or design and others cannot make, sell, or use it. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) grants patents for improvements made to existing products or innovations similar to already-patented products.
Improvement Patent
An improvement patent is made with products already in existence when you pursue patentable innovations. Improvement patents can enhance a current product, bring in new technology, or define a new use of a product. Determine if the improvement patent is worthwhile before beginning the process.
Most new patents granted are improvement patents fall into one of these categories:
- Addition invention. This type of invention that adds something to an already-established invention.
- Substitution invention. This involves changing an aspect of the already-existing invention.
- Incorporating new technologies into old products. Sometimes technology improves the process of making a product, so adding this facet would be worthwhile.
- New use for an existing invention. One recent example of this was a patent issued for using an ointment on cow udders called Bag Balm to treat human baldness.
Types of Product Improvements That Qualify for a Patent
When improving a product that already exists, the USPTO recognizes several categories of patentable enhancements:
- Functional Improvements: Enhancing the way a product operates, such as increasing efficiency or improving durability.
- Design Improvements: Making aesthetic changes that create a unique appearance without altering the function.
- Material Innovations: Substituting materials to enhance performance or sustainability.
- Technological Advancements: Integrating digital or mechanical innovations to improve usability.
- New Uses for Existing Products: Discovering and patenting alternative applications for a known product.
Each improvement must meet patentability requirements, including novelty, usefulness, and non-obviousness.
Can You Patent an Improvement on an Existing Product?
There are several keys to demonstrate that your idea adds something new.
- Search for the patent. Before you start the patent application, complete a two-part search. Look at previous patents to see if your idea is already covered. Secondly, review related patents to see if your improvement is worth a patent.
- File a temporary patent. The entire provisional patent process takes time, but once complete, it's valid for 12 months. Mention if you're using a patent attorney. This is voluntary, but the USPTO encourages you to do so.
- Prepare the application. There are four sections to the application. The first two cover the description and summary. The third, called prior art, covers similar patents and how they apply to your application. The final section, also known as claims, includes specifications and drawings.
- Revisions to the application. Most times your original patent application is not approved, typically because one or more of your claims already have patents already on them. You must prove that your idea is new. If you're able to do so, you will receive approval for patent application.
Conducting a Thorough Patent Search
Before applying for an improvement patent, conducting a comprehensive patent search ensures that your idea is truly unique. Follow these steps:
- Use the USPTO Patent Database: Search for similar patents and prior art.
- Explore International Patents: Check databases such as the European Patent Office (EPO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
- Analyze Patent Classifications: Identify relevant patent codes to refine your search.
- Hire a Patent Professional: A patent attorney can conduct in-depth research and provide legal guidance.
A thorough search prevents unnecessary application rejections and identifies potential infringement risks.
Provisional Patent Application
The purpose of a patent application is to allow an inventor to propose an idea, test its innovations, or modify a product before committing to the costly and time-consuming process of filing a formal application.
The provisional patent application process is valid for 12 months from the date of the file. The provisional application must have the names of the inventor(s). Some other requirements include the title of the invention and attorney or the patent agent name. See Provisional Patent Cost.
Developing a Strong Patent Application
A well-prepared patent application increases the likelihood of approval. Essential components include:
- Title and Abstract: Clearly describe the improvement and its intended function.
- Detailed Description: Provide step-by-step details, including materials, technology, and modifications.
- Claims Section: Define the specific aspects of your improvement that require legal protection.
- Drawings and Diagrams: Illustrate how the improvement functions and differs from existing products.
Provisional patents require less detail than formal applications but should still be thorough enough to establish priority.
Patentability Standard for Improvement Patents
In order to apply for an improvement patent, you must prove that the invention is:
- New. Nobody else can claim to advertise, sell, or patent anything similar.
- Useful. The improvement must add a new function or extends the existing function of the invention.
- Not obvious. Your invention cannot be an obvious take off an invention or have features used in similar instances (see non-obvious patent example).
Most people believe that they once they get an improvement patent, they can build, use, or sell the invention without the fear of anyone coming after them for patent infringement. That isn't the case.
For instance, if your invention enhances an item, you might need to include the item in the patent. If the original invention doesn't have an expired patent, you might be guilty of infringement. So be careful when filling out the application.
Validating Market Potential for Your Patent
Before investing in a patent, assess whether your improvement has commercial viability:
- Competitor Analysis: Evaluate existing market solutions and identify gaps.
- Consumer Demand: Conduct surveys or focus groups to gauge interest.
- Manufacturing Feasibility: Ensure the improvement is cost-effective to produce.
- Profitability Potential: Analyze pricing strategies and potential return on investment.
A strong market demand enhances the value of your patent and its licensing potential.
Patenting Improvements
Most inventions are improvements on devices or solutions. So keep in mind that inventors oftentimes improve upon the work done by others. If you opt to take on improvement patents, know that you already have the market for a current product. This lets you avoid the difficulties of branching into the commercial industry. Establishing a market isn't easy, so many times inventors stay with improvements.
However, be honest with yourself when it comes to your patent. Is your invention better than other solutions available? Would others want to buy yours? Remember that your patent is an improvement and worth it so others must pay a premium for it. The premium allows reimbursement for your expenses.
In an ideal situation, your invention will not only bring in a premium but encourage others to view your invention as a much better idea than what they currently use. Also, consider the market. If your invention has little marketability, this means fewer resources. You might not get the exposure and money for an invention like that. You're spending quite a bit of money on your patented invention, and if you're wrong about the market, you cannot get that money back.
Avoiding Patent Infringement When Improving Existing Products
Patenting an improvement does not guarantee the right to produce, sell, or use the product without legal risk. To avoid infringement:
- Review Existing Patents: If the base product is still under patent protection, you may need a licensing agreement.
- Consult a Patent Attorney: Legal professionals can help navigate infringement risks.
- Consider Alternative Protection Methods: In some cases, trade secrets, trademarks, or design patents might offer better protection.
Understanding intellectual property rights ensures compliance while bringing your improvement to market.
Alternatives to Patents for Protecting Product Improvements
Not all improvements require a patent. Consider these alternative intellectual property protections:
- Trademarks: Protects brand names, logos, and product identifiers.
- Trade Secrets: Keeps proprietary processes or formulas confidential.
- Copyrights: Covers creative aspects such as packaging or software.
- Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs): Prevents others from sharing your innovation before patenting.
Choosing the right protection strategy depends on the nature of the improvement and market goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I patent an improvement if the original product is still patented?
- Yes, but you may need permission from the original patent holder to manufacture or sell the improved version.
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What happens if my improvement is too similar to an existing patent?
- Your application may be rejected unless you demonstrate a unique, non-obvious enhancement.
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How much does it cost to patent an improvement?
- Costs vary but typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, including application fees and attorney costs.
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Do I need a prototype before applying for a patent?
- No, but having a working model can strengthen your application and market potential.
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Can I sell or license my improvement patent?
- Yes, licensing agreements allow others to use your patent in exchange for royalties, making it a valuable business asset.
Legal Support for an Improvement Patent
If you need help learning how to patent an improvement on an existing product, you can post your legal need on UpCounsel's marketplace. UpCounsel accepts only the top 5 percent of lawyers to its site. Lawyers on UpCounsel come from law schools such as Harvard Law and Yale Law and average 14 years of legal experience, including work with or on behalf of companies like Google, Menlo Ventures, and Airbnb.