An authority patent refers to a type of patent issued by a government authority, granting exclusive rights to an inventor for their invention. It is a legal document that serves as evidence of the inventor's ownership and protects their intellectual property from being used, sold, or reproduced without their permission. An authority patent is obtained after a rigorous application process, which often involves demonstrating the uniqueness and usefulness of the invention.
This type of patent is distinct from other forms of patent, such as utility patents or design patents, as it is typically granted by an official governmental body responsible for patent regulations and enforcement. By obtaining an authority patent, the inventor gains the legal authority to exclude others from making, using, or selling their invention for a set period of time, which is usually 20 years from the filing date.
The authority patent not only protects the inventor's rights but it also allows them to license or sell their patent to others, enabling them to profit from their invention through royalties or outright purchases. Moreover, an authority patent strengthens an inventor's credibility and serves as a solid basis for future research, development, and innovation.
As technology and innovation continue to evolve, authority patents play a vital role in facilitating progress by promoting inventors' exclusive rights and providing them with ample time to recoup the investment and efforts put into their creations.
The term "authority patent" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words with their own origins.
1. "Authority": The word "authority" comes from the Latin word "auctoritas" which means "invention, advice, influence". It entered the English language in the 13th century and originally referred to the power or right to enforce, command, or make decisions.
2. "Patent": The word "patent" comes from the Latin word "patentēs" which means "open, unobstructed, evident". It entered the English language in the 14th century and originally referred to a document granting exclusive rights to an invention, design, or process.
When combined, "authority patent" implies a patent or exclusive right granted by a governing authority or institution.