Legal Definitions - new-use invention

A new-use invention is a discovery of a new use for an existing invention. This means that someone has found a new way to use something that already exists. As long as the new use is not obvious and is actually useful, it can be patented.

• A company invents a new type of adhesive that is strong and long-lasting. Later, someone discovers that the adhesive can also be used to create a new type of bandage that is more effective than traditional bandages. This new use for the adhesive can be patented as a new-use invention.
• A scientist discovers that a drug that was originally developed to treat one disease can also be used to treat a different disease. This new use for the drug can be patented as a new-use invention.

These examples illustrate how a new-use invention is a discovery of a new way to use something that already exists. As long as the new use is not obvious and is actually useful, it can be patented.