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If the idea is novel and not something an ordinary mechanic can come up with, that's eminently patentable; Watt didn't have to build a working two-chamber steam
by Nomentatus 10y ago
If the idea is novel and not something an ordinary mechanic can come up with, that's eminently patentable; Watt didn't have to build a working two-chamber steam engine to get his patent, I don't believe. All the rest of what it takes to actually build it is patentable too, if it isn't obvious. That opportunity isn't lost.
- ajross 10y agoI was quibbling more with the idea that the patent represents an "invention" of the transistor than whether it was valid. I mean, da Vinci drew something like a glider once. Did he invent air travel?
- Nomentatus 10y agoHe invented the glider, IF he was first (but this is unlikey, the paper airplane may extend nearly as far back as paper, as toy hot air ballons do - in China.) Nobody invented all transistors, nor all aircraft, but it's reasonable to give the Wrights special attention.