Translating Research and Development into Patentable Inventions 21 Oct 2025 Behind every innovative product lies a chain of discoveries birthed from a lab somewhere in the world. Research and development (R&D) teams are often the unsung heroes of innovation. They spend much time testing, experimenting, and refining new technologies. However, one of the biggest hurdles for organizations is this: taking raw R&D output and translating it into patents that protect and advance the business. In fact, many promising inventions never become patents eventually, because the connection between the inventors and the patent attorneys breaks down. In this article, we will learn how to bridge or narrow the gap between inventors and the patent attorneys. The “Aha Moment” It is common for scientists or inventors to be zealous in thinking they have made a significant breakthrough that is worthy of a patent. However, as time will tell, not every invention is patent worthy. It is thus critical to identify when an invention: solves a real technical problem in a new way; and is not obvious to a skilled person in the art (or would be surprising to a skilled person). Of course it is also important that the invention is marketable and profitable, giving the organization a competitive edge, licensing opportunities or cost savings. As an example, a new material that withstands higher temperatures may make the achievement seem bleak. However, if such a material may extend battery life in electric vehicle, that could potentially be patentable with major business implications. Hence, R&D teams should be educated to recognize these signs early and flag them before the window closes. Bridging the Gap Engineers or Scientists can confidently explain their invention in terms of data, formulas, and prototypes. Patent Attorneys, on the other hand, tend to focus on claim language, prior art and enforceability of a patent. To narrow this gap between the inventors and the patent attorneys, inventors should be encouraged to describe what is new, and not simply what succeeds or works. Inventors should also facilitate discussion by employing diagrams, flowcharts, or rough sketches to help patent attorneys capture the essence of the invention. Inventors could also avoid heavily using technical jargons and assist to explain the “big picture” impact (in other words, translating technical jargon into practical terms that a patent attorney and subsequently, a patent examiner) can comprehend. These would significantly assist a patent attorney when drafting the specification and the resultant patent could be more robust. Build a Patent Culture Patents are often seen as the paperwork done for formalities after the real “hard” work is over. However, it is the successful companies treat patents as part of their culture of innovation. Such a culture could include celebrating and rewarding inventors when patents are filed or granted. A healthy patent culture also educates employees link R&D goals with IP strategy, and to see patents as business tools (and not merely trophies). Companies like IBM and Qualcomm did not become patent powerhouses overnight by accident. These companies worked hard to build a culture where protecting innovation is as important as creating it. When to File? Timing Matters It is also important to catch the right moment to file patents. If a patent is filed too early, the organization may be paying to protect an incomplete idea that is still in its infancy. This could result in missing key features that other competitors may later exploit (since such features are not protected). If however, the organization elects to defer such filing till a later stage, such an invention may already have been published or leaked to the public, and thus destroying novelty of the invention. It would thus be beneficial for the organization to hold regular invention disclosure meetings with the patent attorney, to be better positioned to decide when to file a patent. Alignment with Business Strategy A patent by itself is simply a document. The true value of a patent ultimately depends on alignment with business strategy. It is thus important to consider before filing, whether the invention fits into the companies’ product roadmap. Licensing opportunities to partners and competitors and ability to strengthen an organization’s position during negotiations, should also not be neglected. Another point for consideration would be whether such a patent could attract investors. Patents that align with business goals become assets, not expenses. Closing Thoughts Often, innovators focus on the destination – the prized patent. However, the journey from the R&D lab to the granted patent is not automatic. It requires the collective efforts and input of engineers, scientists, innovators who can see the business impact, patent attorney who can fully grasp the technical details, and business leaders who treat IP as a strategic priority. When done right, patents become more than just legal protection against third party copying the invention. Such patents can be a sign of credibility to investors and be building blocks of long term value.