Answer to Question #261215 in Computer Networks for Eulanda

Question

You are creating a new, innovative machine for a company that you work for. The idea is new and

will give your company a real competitive advantage. The owner of the company wants to

copyright the machine that you are developing. You need to explain the following to the owner of

the company:

Q.4.1 Is copyright an appropriate form of intellectual property protection for a new

machine? Explain your answer.

(3)

Q.4.2 If not, what is the most appropriate form or intellectual property protection

for an innovative machine? Explain your answer.

(4)

Q.4.3 How is the most appropriate form of protection applied for? (2)

Q.4.4 How much protection will it provide? (4)

Q.4.5 Who owns the intellectual property relating to the machine?

Answer 1

4.1) Copyright may not be an appropriate form of intellectual property protection for a new and innovative machine, as copyright would only protect the materialistic execution of the ideas and not the idea itself. Copyright cannot protect idea, concept, or method of the innovation. It is usually used to protect music, art, photography, etc.

4.2) Patent is the most appropriate form of intellectual property protection for a new and innovative machine. It not only protects the material created by the owner, but also the idea and concept behind it. It protects the interest of the investors whose ideas and innovation are enjoying success.

4.3) For applying a patent an investor needs to prove that his idea and innovation is new and useful. It is mandatory to prove that the idea or new technology created is not someone other's work. The usefulness of the technology is demonstrated with all it's way to use. A fees is required to be paid by the investor to obtain such patent.

4.4) Once a patent is obtained, it provides a 20 years of protection to the innovation. Periodical payment of fees is to made throughout the 20 years period to maintain it's validity. It can also be renewed. It provides protection against commercial exploitation and usage of the technology without the owner's consent.

4.5) The intellectual property relating to the machine will be owned by the creator( in this case, 'me'). Intellectual property signifies the intangible creation( i.e., idea) which was made in the mind of the creator.