What does the term "patent pending" actually mean?

Question

Someone told me that their product was proven to work, so it had a patent pending. I thought that the term meant that they had only applied for a patent.

Answer 1

Yes, the term means they applied for a patent . . .
Because they believe they invented something (working or not) and they want exclusive manufacturing rights.
Many things are patented that are worthless , but the first person that came up with it can file for patent rights.
If something should work , no one else could produce it without the patent holders permission.
Patent does NOT mean something works, only that someone who believes they are the first is claiming production rights.
The patent office will review their records to see if they are in fact , the first person to file on that design & if they are , the patent is granted (but still does not verify workability)

Answer 2

It means that they have applied for a patent, but they have not been granted the patent yet (it is still being decided on). That means that if you copy the design, and they get the patent, then you would be in violation of the patent. Basically it is a mechanism that allows for a product to be sold, while the patent board is still deciding on the validity of the patent application.

Answer 3

It means that the comapny has finished testing the prototype and they have files for a patent. The patents is pending because someone is reviewing the schematics and blueprints in the patent office. (the patent law requires full disclosure of the design and manufacturing processes for the patent to be issued).

Answer 4

You are correct. It is being examined by the patent office and if they accept it, then the patent is granted. I think there can be a anticipation attached to the "pending". Patents do get denied, sometimes you have to come back with better argument (clarification) or more data before it finally gets approved.