human: What is the nature of information needed while consulting a patent attorney?
assistant: 1) An explanation of the history of the invention, where you got the idea from, how you developed it, any early failures and the possible prototypes, all your laboratory note books if possible, etc. This will help the patent attorney to explain the inventive step which is necessary for obtaining the patent. It also increases his or her understanding of the invention so as to maximise the skill with which he or she can draft claims and specifications. 2) What you think is the most inventive element or the most useful aspect, together with other similar prior inventions you know of or from where you have developed or improved upon the idea. If you have developed an improved version of your competitor's products, admit it; be totally honest. This is vital so that the patent agent can describe your invention properly while drafting the application and avoid excessive claims which might be struck down. 3) Drawings if any, which may illustrate the invention should be attached.