Patenting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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patenting
[หpรฆtษntษชล ]
Definition
legal process
Patenting is the process of obtaining a patent, which is an exclusive right granted for an invention, providing the patent holder with the legal authority to exclude others from making, using, selling, or distributing the patented invention without permission for a certain period of time. This process encourages innovation by allowing inventors to recoup their investments in research and development.
Synonyms
copyrighting, licensing, trademarking.
Examples of usage
- The patenting process can be lengthy.
- She is considering patenting her new invention.
- Patenting an idea can protect it from being copied.
- Many startups focus on patenting their technology.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The first known patent system was established in Venice in 1474, encouraging innovation by protecting inventors' rights.
- In 1790, the United States signed the Patent Act, officially enabling inventors to apply for patents and protect their inventions.
- Famous inventors like Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell made use of patenting to safeguard their groundbreaking technologies.
Pop Culture
- Popular movies often showcase inventors seeking patents as they face challenges from others trying to steal their ideas.
- Reality TV shows about startups frequently highlight the importance of patenting in the tech industry, showcasing inventors protecting their ideas.
Science and Innovation
- Patenting encourages scientific research by ensuring that inventors can benefit economically from their research efforts.
- Many life-saving drugs and technologies are patented to secure the financial investment required for their development.
Legal Aspects
- Patenting requires a detailed application process, including demonstrating that the invention is novel and non-obvious.
- In many countries, a patent lasts for about 20 years, after which the invention enters the public domain and can be used freely.
Origin of 'patenting'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'patent' comes from the Latin term 'patere', which means 'to lay open', reflecting the idea that an invention is made public.
- Originally, patents were called 'letters patent', which were documents that allowed inventors to have rights to their creations.
The term 'patent' comes from the Latin word 'patere,' meaning 'to lay open.' In the late Middle Ages, patents were issued in the form of letters patent, which were documents that gave specific rights or privileges, such as a monopoly on a trade or innovation. By the 17th century, formal patent laws were being established in European countries to promote scientific progress and reward inventors. The first modern patent law was introduced in England in 1624 with the Statute of Monopolies, granting inventors a period of 14 years of exclusive rights. Over time, many countries developed similar laws, leading to the formation of international agreements that recognized and standardized patenting rights across borders. Today, patenting is a key aspect of intellectual property law, fostering innovation and protecting inventors' rights in a global marketplace.