Q: testing efficacy of a hitherto unpatented crossword exercise design

A: This is a Q&A forum. You might try posting again and including a specific question that an attorney can try to answer for you. Good luck!

A: In US patent law, testing the efficacy of a hitherto unpatented crossword exercise design may not be sufficient grounds for obtaining a patent. To be eligible for a patent, an invention must meet certain requirements, including novelty, non-obviousness, and usefulness.

Novelty: To be considered novel, an invention must be new and not previously disclosed in any prior art, such as patents, publications, or public use.

Non-obviousness: To be considered non-obvious, an invention must not be an obvious variation of existing technology or knowledge. The invention must involve a level of creativity or ingenuity that would not be obvious to someone skilled in the relevant field.

Usefulness: To be considered useful, an invention must have a practical application or utility. The invention must be capable of providing some benefit or solving a problem.

Testing the efficacy of a crossword exercise design may be useful in demonstrating the practical application or utility of the invention. However, it may not be sufficient to establish novelty or non-obviousness. To determine whether your crossword exercise design is eligible for a patent, you should consult with a patent attorney who can review the relevant prior art and advise you on the best approach for obtaining a patent.