What is a patent?

A patent is a legal right granted by a jurisdictional authority that gives an inventor exclusive rights to make, use, sell, and license their invention for a limited period, typically 20 years from the filing date.

To qualify for a patent, an invention must generally meet three criteria:

1. Novelty – It must be new and not publicly disclosed before filing.
2. Inventiveness – It must involve an inventive step that is not obvious.
3. Industrial applicability – It must be capable of practical use.
   

Patents are granted by national or regional patent offices. Once granted, the patent owner can take legal action against anyone who uses the invention without permission.

Patents are part of a broader category known as intellectual property, which also includes trademarks, copyrights, and designs.