Patent Translation for the Brazilian INPI—National Institute of Industrial Property—is a complex and fascinating process at the same time. Patents describe novel creations with high technical specificity, following strict formulation guidelines. For those who are not well-versed in the subject, patent translation can be an impossible puzzle to solve.

A simple error in patent translation can result in the loss of protection for that creation, or even rejection of the patent application by the responsible authority. Therefore, it is advisable to always work with experienced professionals.

Tips for Patent Translation for the Brazilian INPI

Requirements may vary depending on the country and the receiving patent office. The tips below are based on the requirements of the National Institute of Industrial Property for the protection of inventions and industrial models in the Brazilian market.

• Sections: Verify that the patent structure is correct. Patent applications must include a relatório descritivo, reivindicações, listagem de seqüências (for biotechnology patent applications), desenhos (if applicable), and a brief summary of the invention or industrial model.

• Claims: The reivindicações are the most important part of the patent (equivalent to claims in other jurisdictions), as their content will determine the scope of protection granted by the patent. Therefore, precision in translating the claims is of utmost importance. Ensure that the translation of the claims is clear and concise, and that it maintains the essential and specific characteristics of the invention to be protected. Claims must be numbered consecutively and contain a single “caracterizado por” expression.

• Drawings: In case there are desenhos, ensure that the numerical references of each part of the drawing correspond to the description in the descriptive report. They should be cited within parentheses.

• Summary: It is the description of the object of the patent application. In translation, the length may vary, but it is recommended to adhere to the INPI’s indication and avoid having the summary exceed 25 lines of text. The INPI also suggests that it should be composed of between fifty (50) and two hundred (200) words.

• Expertise: Finally, it is essential that the translator performing the translation has experience in patent translation for that specific industry, to ensure the quality of the translation and its adherence to INPI requirements.

Need to translate a patent for submission to the Brazilian INPI? Contact us for free advice and a quote.