But, it turns out that, the sewing machine patent pool may have inhibited innovation, according to this paper: http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_i

But, it turns out that, the sewing machine patent pool may have inhibited innovation, according to this paper: http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=1308997 http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=1308997). "Contrary to theoretical predictions, the sewing machine pool appears to have discouraged patenting and innovation, in particular for the members of the pool. Data on stitches per minute, as an objectively quantifiable measure of performance, confirm these findings. Innovation for both members and outside firms slowed as soon as the pool had been established and resumed only after it had dissolved. "