While the patent was apparently issued, does it really mean anything?
Take the following situation as an example:
Suppose I invent the longer-lasting light bulb and successfully acquire a patent for it.
Does the patent prevent people from using such a light bulb while conducting business? Does a grocery store that uses the bulb to light their store during business hours have to pay royalties to me for using my patented technology? Or does it simply prevent the grocery store from creating and selling a knock-off of my light bulb?
In other words, so what if those morons got a patent? Can't anyone use the "technology" while conducting business as long as they don't try to sell it?
Slashdot Mirror
The "slim jim" is also a burglary tool - yet it can be found in most law enforcement vehicles!
A burglary tool used legitimately by law enforcement? How can that be?!?!
While the patent was apparently issued, does it really mean anything?
Take the following situation as an example:
Suppose I invent the longer-lasting light bulb and successfully acquire a patent for it.
Does the patent prevent people from using such a light bulb while conducting business? Does a grocery store that uses the bulb to light their store during business hours have to pay royalties to me for using my patented technology? Or does it simply prevent the grocery store from creating and selling a knock-off of my light bulb?
In other words, so what if those morons got a patent? Can't anyone use the "technology" while conducting business as long as they don't try to sell it?