PTOn
PTOn refers to a specific type of patent that is granted for a technology or invention. It is a shortened, informal term derived from the standard patent terminology. When a patent is granted, it signifies that the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) or a similar international body has examined the invention and determined it meets the criteria for patentability, such as novelty, utility, and non-obviousness. These granted patents provide the patent holder with exclusive rights to make, use, sell, and import the patented invention for a limited period, typically 20 years from the filing date. The term PTOn is not an official legal designation but is commonly used in patent law and industry discussions to distinguish a granted patent from other patent-related documents like patent applications or provisional applications. Understanding the status of a PTOn is crucial for businesses and inventors to assess intellectual property rights and potential infringement.