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Patents: What Is A Patent?
Patents: What Is A Patent?
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Patents
What is a patent?
A patent is an exclusive right granted for an
invention, which is a product or a process that
provides, in general, a new way of doing something,
or offers a new technical solution to a problem. To
get a patent, technical information about the invention
must be disclosed to the public in a patent
application.
(PHOTO: ISTOCK.COM/ZOKARA)
Computer programs
Software producers need protection against unauthorized copying in order
to recoup their investments, but using patents for this raises questions.
(PHOTO: ISTOCK.COM/ADVENTTR)
Nanotechnology
While nanotechnology innovations appear generally suitable for patent
protection, certain issues require further consideration.
Patent law and treaties
The treaties WIPO administers, together with national and regional laws,
make up the international legal framework for patents.
Patent-related treaties
Paris Convention
Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)
Strasbourg Agreement Concerning the International Patent
Classification
Patent Law Treaty (PLT)
Budapest Treaty
IP laws and treaties (WIPO Lex)
The WIPO Lex database is a comprehensive search tool that allows you to
search international treaties and national laws on intellectual property.
Find out more about the various ways in which WIPO engages
in technology and knowledge transfer.
(PHOTO: GETTY/DEMAERRE)
Patent Drafting Training Program
The Patent Drafting Training Program assists users of the patent system to
develop practical skills in drafting and filing patent applications.
(PHOTO: IPOPHIL)
Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISCs)
Our Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC) program gives
innovators in developing countries access to high quality technology
information and related services to help them create, protect, and manage
intellectual property rights.
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CopyrightGeographical indicationsContact UsSite mapAccessibilityTerms of
UsePrivacy Policy
Patents are territorial rights. In general, the exclusive rights are only
applicable in the country or region in which a patent has been filed and
granted, in accordance with the law of that country or region.
The protection is granted for a limited period, generally 20 years from the
filing date of the application.