Patents
A patent provides security of intellectual property for a limited period.
[edit] What is a patent?
When a design is created for a unique, innovative or novel object, be it a labour-saving device, mechanical or electrical component or anything else that it is thought can be produced and sold in profitable quantities, the designer may apply for a patent.
A patent is a form of intellectual property protection. Once granted – usually for a limited period – the designer can exclude others from copying, making, importing and selling a similar item that closely resembles the original and is clearly derived from it.
A patent gives the designer certain rights under civic law to sue any party that has infringed the patent.
The UK patents office grants patents to inventions that:
- Can be made or used (e.g a new construction component).
- Are new.
- Are inventive and not just a simple modification to an existing design.
[edit] Things that cannot be patented
Certain types of invention cannot be patented, including:
- Literary, dramatic, musical or artistic works (including building designs).
- A way of doing business, playing a game or thinking.
- A method of medical treatment or diagnosis.
- A discovery, scientific theory or mathematical method.
- The way information is presented.
- Some computer programmes or mobile apps.
- ‘Essentially biological’ processes e.g cross-breeding plants, and plant or animal varieties.
Patents are generally expensive and difficult to obtain. In the UK, applications typically cost £4,000 and only 1 in 20 applications get a patent without professional help. The process is also long, usually taking five years.
Once granted, the costs can start to pile up: a patent must be renewed every year and there could also be legal costs to pay if a patent needs to be defended in court.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Prioritising tax considerations.
Reviewing the Double Diamond Design model
The four D creative process: discover, define, develop and deliver.
National Cyber Security Centre initiative is announced.
The impact of COVID-19 on global HVAC&R markets
Reviewing trends and projections.
Legislation will establish initiatives to move towards net zero.
Status determination statement
How to document contractor employment status.
Social distancing goes high tech
Tech tools to help manage people and space post-pandemic.
Eclectic Edwardian architecture
A style that ranges from mock Tudor to arts and crafts to the 'Wrenaissance'.
Free guide from Secured by Design.
Building Back Better: Circularity
BREEAM strategy for sustainability and the circular economy.
Free tool to improve the construction programming process.
Building services verification
Are buildings doing what they're supposed to be doing?
Cities with quick access to everything by foot or bike.
The pressures and pinch points of global destinations.