Legal Definitions - constructive reduction to practice

Definition:Constructivereduction to practice is the documented demonstration that an invention will perform its intended purpose, contained in a patent application that provides enough detail that a person skilled in the art could make and test the invention.

For example, if someone invents a new type of engine, they can file a patent application that includes detailed instructions on how to make and use the engine. This patent application serves as a constructive reduction to practice because it demonstrates that the invention will work as intended and provides enough information for someone skilled in the art to make and test the engine.

The date of constructive reduction to practice is important in determining priority between inventors competing for a patent on the same invention. It is also important for establishing the completeness of an invention for patent purposes.