The purpose of this guide is to provide you with basic information about filing a utility patent application with the USPTO. Learn the basics of the patent process: see General Information, What Can be Patented or contact the OID.It is the only patent and trademark resource center in Minnesota. Expert staff offer programs and assistance on navigating patenting and trademarking processes. This tutorial will focus on patents and the process for securing a patent in the U.S. First, let's consider why we have a patent system? First, the applicant for patent must be able to demonstrate that he or she has developed a new, useful, and not obvious process or product.