We developed a method for precisely describing methods in patent applications and patents. Method inventions may be difficult to describe. There are standard symbols in computer science, used in programs flowcharts for example: Terminal, Processing, Decision, Connector, Input/Output, Manual input, Printer, Storage.

Each type may be filled with specific terms detailing the process, decision, . etc. The above elements are connected by lines indicating the direction of flow.

For example, referring to the Figure, which illustrates a block diagram describing a system invention:

input signal-related text T10, T30
output signal-related text T17
input/output signal-related text T37,T38 (bi-directional pins)
forward path includes components 11E, 12E, 13E, 14E, 15E, 16E
another forward path includes components 11E, 12E, 13E, 14E, 19E, 16E
yet another forward path includes components 31E, 32E, 33E, 34E, 35E, 36E
yet another forward path includes components 23E, 22E, 20E, 14E, 15E, 16E
a feedback path includes components 39E, 40E, 32E
one-input blocks include components 18E
one-output blocks include components 21E
two-terminal blocks include 11E, 12E, 13E...
three-terminal blocks include 22E, 14E, 19E, 39E...
four-terminal blocks include 16E

Thus, methods can be defined clearly and unambiguously, either for manual or for computer processing. Using a computer, methods in a plurality of patents may be compared fast and efficiently. This can also help in patenting software, Internet applications, distributed systems, etc.

Patentability criteria: Process (method) inventions can benefit from the policy at examination, that when evaluating the scope of a claim, every limitation in the claim must be considered.

Examiners may not dissect a claimed invention into discrete elements and then evaluate the elements in isolation. Instead, the claim as a whole must be considered. See, e.g., Diamond v. Diehr, 450 U.S. 175, 188-89, 209 USPQ 1, 9 (1981).

A clear and complete description of a process will indicate both novel elements and additional parts, even if known, to provide a better context and description of use and function of the invention. This description will also help get the invention allowed for patent.