Book excerpt: The most significant overhaul of the U.S. patent laws in decades occurred with the recent passage of the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act (AIA). Understanding the law that dictates what a patent is and how a patent is obtained and enforced, and the recent changes through statute or case law litigation presents unique challenges. This third edition of Patent Fundamentals for Scientists and Engineers examines the new Act and provides an overview of the patent system for the independent inventor as well as for members of the scientific and business community—whether a scientist, engineer, supervisor, or manager. In addition to a new chapter dedicated to the America Invents Act, the third edition includes annotations of the recent law changes, updates in all chapters, new figures, and new case studies. The authors discuss patent filing outside of the United States and also dedicate a chapter specifically to the Canadian patent system. They describe the key topics that anyone involved in the patent process needs to know, including what makes an invention patentable, the art of patent searching, and the crucial role of record keeping. The text also includes an indispensable glossary of patent terminology, as well as an appendix with sample U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) forms. This book provides a valuable guide to assist inventors in dealing with the USPTO, as well as with patent professionals. The text describes the patent process from conception to application filing and is a must-have reference for scientists and businesspeople alike. Since the role of patent professionals is to obtain the maximum protection for inventors, both the inventor and businessperson would be well advised to understand and participate in all the steps involved. This book offers an excellent insight into the patent process.