This is a practice that is no longer followed in the patent office, but was widely used in the 19th century to signal an intention to test and perfect a new invention. If another inventor later submits a patent for the same idea, then the Caveator is notified and given an opportunity to submit a patent. The existence of a caveat can also be used to establish priority for an invention. Caveats, unlike patents, were confidential documents; no one outside of the patent office could see them without the permission of the Caveator.
Your caveat will give your group a chance to decide on the type of system you want to try to perfect for patenting. Your caveat can include several alternate designs you might pursue. For example, Gray, in his caveat, raised the possibility that his system for transmitting speech might require multiple transmitters and receivers (see Exhibit 2). He intended to do further research to resolve this issue. Meanwhile, Gray would receive notice of any patent for a device to transmit and receive the human voice.
You should also submit a short (2 page) written caveat with a sketch or two. Include any proposals for additional equipment. We will give you feedback on your design at this stage, and evaluate your request for equipment.
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