Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)
International patent application treaty enabling single-application patent filing in 150 plus countries.
Definition
Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) is an international patent treaty enabling single PCT application that can be extended to 150 plus member countries within 30 months. Administered by WIPO.
Context
Delaware LLCs with novel inventions can use PCT for global patent protection strategy.
Example
A Delaware LLC files US patent application, then files PCT application within 12 months. PCT designation allows up to 30 months to enter national-phase patents in specific countries.
Common pitfalls
- High costs for national-phase entries.
- Strict deadlines (12-month priority, 30-month national phase).
- Engage patent attorney for any PCT strategy.