Patent examiners are highly trained specialists at the patent office, for example at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) or Patent Offices in your country. They act as the gatekeepers of the patent system, ensuring only inventions that meet strict criteria receive patent protection. Their primary responsibility involves meticulously reviewing patent applications to determine if they fulfill the three pillars of patentability - novelty, non-obviousness and utility.

Think of the examiner as a detective solving a puzzle, your application being the case file. They delve deep into your invention, meticulously analyzing its technical details, claims, and potential prior art i.e. existing inventions that might be similar.

Through this rigorous process, patent examiners aim to:

Understand the invention: They carefully study your application, ensuring they grasp its technical intricacies and intended purpose.

Search for prior art: They scour databases and publications to identify any existing inventions that might resemble yours.

Issue office actions: If they find potential issues with your application's patentability, they will raise concerns in an "office action," requesting clarifications, amendments, or additional evidence.

Engage in dialogue: They communicate with you or your attorney to address concerns and ensure your application adheres to legal requirements.

Make a decision: Ultimately, they decide whether to grant or reject your patent application based on the gathered evidence and your response to their inquiries.

Patent examiners are evaluators ensuring the integrity of the patent system. Their job requires immense technical knowledge and legal expertise, making them crucial players in safeguarding innovation.

Open communication and addressing their concerns promptly can significantly improve your chances of securing a patent.