What is indicated by "a finite number" of options in the context of determining obviousness?

In the context of determining obviousness, "a finite number" of options refers specifically to a numerically limited set of feasible choices. This means that when assessing the obviousness of an invention, the focus is on a defined range of alternatives that can be reasonably considered by a person having ordinary skill in the art (PHOSITA).

In patent law, the notion of obviousness evaluates whether an invention is sufficiently different from existing knowledge (prior art) such that it would not be obvious to those with expertise in the field. If there is a finite number of options available for a problem, it often implies that a particular solution could be obvious—since a skilled artisan would recognize these limited options and may easily arrive at one of them.

The concept of a finite set is essential in the consideration of whether the invention represents a leap of innovative thought or merely a logical progression from existing products or concepts. This is contrary to an arbitrary, open-ended, or unclear amount of possibilities, as these would not assist in determining whether the invention might be obvious. Instead, a focused and finite exploration assists in distinguishing what is genuinely novel from what is merely within reach of a skilled practitioner in the respective field.