What is the value of an idea . . . ? Patents are a fascinating concept, because they do everything . . . you’d think an inventor wouldn’t want to do. They must reveal the invention and explain HOW it works, using images and detailed notes. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office then publishes the disclosure - so anybody can see it! With this disclosure, other inventors immediately know how it was created and they can use that knowledge to go forth and create the NEXT great invention - meanwhile, that specific device is protected!

Spotlight On: The U.S. Patent System

Underwriter: Intellectual Property Owners Association

Aired in 2008

(Total Running Time: 5:30)