About patents

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What is a patent?

See the criteria for patentability, including 'inventive step'. Also, find out what classes of inventions cannot be patented.

Benefits of patents

Find out the benefits of patents, including the ability to sell and licence your invention. Also, what can happen to unprotected inventions.

Do you need a patent?

How to decide whether your invention could benefit from patent protection, and what can happen to unprotected work.

Need further advice?

Advice for inventors and business owners. Also, information about our expert search and advisory services.