What is a "statutory bar"?

A statutory bar refers to a specific set of circumstances that prevent an applicant from obtaining a patent due to prior art or actions that have occurred before the patent application is filed. Under U.S. patent law, particularly 35 U.S.C. § 102, certain conditions can trigger a statutory bar. For instance, if the invention was publicly disclosed, offered for sale, or used more than one year prior to the filing date of the patent application, the inventor may lose the right to patent that invention.

This concept is crucial in patent law as it establishes clear timeframes and conditions under which patent rights can be forfeited. Understanding the statutory bar is essential for applicants to ensure they do not engage in activities that could undermine their ability to secure patent protection for their inventions.

The other choices do not accurately represent the concept of a statutory bar. Requirements for international patents are governed by international agreements and treaties, while the process of resolving patent disputes relates to litigation, and a type of patent that has expired addresses different aspects of patent lifespan, not the conditions for patentability.