In the context of a patent, an inventor implements and uses unique idea(s) to create usable and working patentable subject matter, from a product to a process and its development and improvement that will solve a specific problem with technical means in advance before anyone else. One of the essential characteristics of an inventor is that an inventor must produce a functional invention. Under 35 U.S.C § 116, an invention can also be made by more than one person, which is referred to as a joint inventor or co-inventor.
[Last updated in March of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team]