Understanding the disclosure
Find answers to your questions about what a disclosure is, why it is required and when it should be submitted. Learn more about disclosures.
Inventors
Your discovery is in good hands. INVO can help you with the process of formally disclosing your invention, filing a patent application and executing contracts and agreements.
Access all resources in our Invention Disclosure section.
Guidance from start to finish
The process of disclosing an invention and working with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is not always straightforward. Use the following information to guide you through the process.
The disclosure process
After submitting your Invention Disclosure Form, INVO will evaluate your invention. See the steps that ideally conclude with filing a provisional patent application.
The patent application process
After a provisional patent application has been filed, INVO has one year to create and file a non-provisional application. Learn about the inventor's role in this process.Understanding USPTO actions
The USPTO responds by rejecting, objecting to, or allowing your invention's claims. Read about this lengthy process, which can take years and commonly includes rejections.
INVO services for inventors
Beyond patent and marketing of inventions.
Learn more about the following services INVO provides inventors.
Execution of Agreements Training & Support ACCESS RELEVANT POLICIES & FORMS
Who can use INVO services?
Northwestern inventors include faculty, staff, and students, all of whom are invited to participate and explore access to a number of INVO programs and resources.
Northwestern faculty affiliated with any school on the Evanston or Chicago campus are eligible. The majority of our inventions have been disclosed by faculty at Feinberg, McCormick, Weinberg and Medill.
Northwestern students
Student inventors can and should disclose inventions to INVO. Depending on how the discovery was made and what resources were used, student discoveries may be owned by the University. See procedures specific to student inventions.
Clinicians at affiliate institutions
INVO services extend to our affiliate institutions, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab and Lurie Children's. Clinicians can disclose their inventions to INVO and participate in our programs and resources.