This module will cover the basic facts about patents. We will explore the different types of patents, including utility, design, and plant. We will define the difference and use of both provisional patent applications and non-provisional patent applications. Further, we will discuss the process of patent prosecution, the role of the U.S. patent examiner and what to expect when working with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Information regarding a number of patent prosecution programs and initiatives available to applicants will also be provided.

Gautam Ubale is a Primary Patent Examiner at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Specializing in Business Methods, he has a sharp focus on areas including Incentive Programs, Coupons, Electronic Shopping, Business Cryptography, Point of Sale, Inventory, and Accounting/Business Processing.

Gautam accumulated valuable experience at both the Patent Training Academy (PTA) and the Western Regional Outreach Office (WRO) before joining the Eastern Regional Outreach Office (EROO) as the Assistant Outreach Coordinator in January 2024. Throughout his journey, he is passionate about raising awareness and empowering inventors, organizations, and universities with the necessary resources to comprehend, safeguard, and effectively harness Intellectual Property. During his tenure, he demonstrated in mentoring junior examiners at the Patent Training Academy (PTA) and within Art Unit (AU 3600).

He holds both a Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Mumbai University and Marquette University, along with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from George Mason University.