PATENT VERSUS RESEARCH PAPER PUBLICATION

Saranya K – Associate, IP Practice INTRODUCTION In the world of intellectual property and scientific discovery, two commonly used methods to protect and disseminate novel ideas are patents and research paper publications. Both play crucial roles in the advancement of knowledge and innovation, but they differ significantly in purpose, process, and audience. Understanding these differences is essential for researchers, inventors, and organizations seeking appropriate methods to share and protect their ideas. PURPOSE: Patents The fundamental purpose of a patent is to protect an invention's exclusive rights for a specified period (usually 20 years). Patents provide legal ownership of an idea or product, preventing others from...

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