Many inventors assume that obtaining a patent automatically prevents competitors from copying their products. In a recent appearance on inventRightTV, McCarter & English partner Erik Belt discussed a common misunderstanding about patent protection and explained how companies often develop alternative designs that avoid infringing patent claims.
Erik explained that a patent’s value depends largely on the strength and scope of its claims, not simply the fact that a patent was issued. He discussed how companies routinely look for ways to design around patented products and why inventors should consider potential alternatives competitors may pursue when developing their patent strategy.