What is an invention disclosure?
Invention disclosure is the act of sharing sufficient information for another person to carry out or duplicate your invention. It is the first step in the patenting process. Such disclosure should be accompanied by a written agreement of confidentiality. Improper disclosure will result in losing all rights to patenting in foreign countries. Failure to file a patent application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office within one year of improper disclosure results in complete loss of patenting rights.