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
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.