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Your First Step: The Invention Disclosure Process
The process of disclosing your invention to Henry Ford Innovations (HFI) is designed to be straightforward and supportive. Here's an overview of the steps involved:
Submitting the disclosure form
The process begins with the inventor(s) completing and submitting an invention disclosure form to us. This form requests important information about the invention, including its novelty, potential applications and any supporting documentation or evidence.
Initial evaluation
Once we receive the disclosure form, it’s assigned to an intellectual property manager who will contact you within a week to schedule a confidential consultation. During this consultation, the manager provides questions and offers initial insights on the invention's commercial potential and intellectual property protection options.
Presentation to IP Committee
Once the necessary information has been collected, the intellectual property manager presents the invention to the Henry Ford Health IP Committee, which convenes monthly (add here). Based on the IP Committee's recommendations, HFI will work with you to execute the chosen strategy, whether it involves filing patent applications, negotiating licensing agreements, or conducting additional research and development.
When should I submit?
Submitting your invention disclosure early is crucial. It is incredibly easy to lose intellectual property (IP) through inadvertent disclosure. Any way you share your findings — through presentations, publications or even casual discussions — can jeopardize your IP. This risk is significant given the stringent requirements of United States and international patent laws, which demand novelty.
Get started today
Ready to disclose your invention and unlock its full potential with us? Access the invention disclosure form and take the first step toward commercializing your innovative ideas.
Questions? Reach out to us.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why should I disclose my invention?
Disclosing your invention is the first step toward protecting your intellectual property and exploring commercialization opportunities. It ensures that your innovation is safeguarded and can be developed further with our support.
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What happens after I submit the invention disclosure form?
After submission, an HFI intellectual property manager will contact you within a specified timeframe (add here) to schedule a confidential consultation. The manager will evaluate the commercial potential of your invention and discuss possible pathways for protection and commercialization.
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How long does the evaluation process take?
The time for initial evaluation, consultation and IP Committee assessment usually take about 3 months. The presentation to the IP committee happens on a monthly basis, typically on the first Tuesday of each month.
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What if my invention is already publicly disclosed?
Public disclosure can jeopardize your ability to secure a patent. It is crucial to submit your invention disclosure form before any public presentation, publication or discussion. If your invention has been disclosed, contact us immediately to discuss your options.
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How do I prepare for the confidential consultation?
Prepare detailed information about your invention, including its novelty, potential applications and any supporting documentation. Be ready to discuss (1) your vision for its commercialization; (2) any prior disclosures; and (3) the participants and, if applicable, external entities involved in its creation.
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What support does HFI provide after disclosure?
We offer comprehensive support, including intellectual property protection, market assessment, licensing negotiations and commercialization strategies. We guide you through every step of the process to ensure your invention reaches its full potential.
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Who owns the intellectual property for my invention?
Typically, Henry Ford Health owns the intellectual property for inventions created by its team members during their employment. However, inventors receive a share of the net proceeds generated from commercialization, as outlined in the Henry Ford IP policy.
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Can I disclose my invention to collaborators outside Henry Ford Health before submitting the Invention disclosure form?
It is important to submit your invention disclosure form before sharing your invention with external collaborators. Public disclosure can jeopardize your ability to secure a patent. Contact us for guidance on how to proceed.
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What if my invention is not approved for patenting by the IP committee?
If the IP committee decides not to pursue patenting, we will discuss alternative pathways, including potential for publication or other forms of protection.
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What if I have a paper or lecture scheduled soon?
If you have any type of public disclosure upcoming, submit your invention disclosure now and include that information in your disclosure. One of our intellectual property managers will reach out and help determine the best course of action. We can act quickly if needed to protect your innovation.