By Sherron Lumley. Vast changes to U.S. patent law—the most sweeping since 1952—are rolling into effect through 2013, and for small business owners and inventors with patents, it’s time to get in the know. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office is working under a new law, called the America Invents Act of 2011 (AIA). It was signed into law on September 16, 2011, with some elements taking effect immediately and others being phased in over an 18-month period. Get that patent filed John Boyd...