This page provides information on the types of patents and types of patent applications, and the examination process. The Pro Se Assistance Program is dedicated to help independent inventors and small businesses meet their goal of protecting valuable intellectual property.A utility patent is a legal protection granted to investors for new, useful, and non-obvious inventions. There are five major types. A patent is not granted on an idea, but rather on a developed product, process or composition of matter. The short answer is Yes. You can still get a patent on your improvements, but only on your improvements. 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? I want to manage this process on behalf of him, but I lack experience in licencing. Timing can be an important factor in the car buying process.