Q: I am now developing an automated smart dustbin with sorting function for communal waste into three categories:
paper, containers, residual waste For this, I need to use for example a sensor, camera, current dustbin or other existing products as the tecniques. I did some patent researches about the sorting waste receptacle (with 3 waste categories as mentioned above) and so far no patent found (I might be wrong because I only searched within 20 years validity). My question: Can I get a patent with the usage of the sensor or camera or the sorting techniques that have already patented? If the answer is no, does that mean I can only sell my product to countries, that are not included the patent? Thank you.
A: What you really need is a patentability opinion from a registered patent attorney or agent. Navigating claims of existing patents and determining whether your discovery is patentable is a complex process. Even patents that are not directly related to your idea may prevent you from getting a patent, or limit the scope of what protection is available. Good luck!
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
