To a lot of us the thought of an “invention” induces mental pictures of a creation of splendour and awe.

While this is true in some cases, it is usually the exception rather than the norm. Quantum leaps occur, yes, but the rate of growth of technology has rendered such leaps very rare.

For example, a fishing reel is known. Someone may create a fishing reel that automatically releases a fish upon the click of a button. This is an incremental change to an ordinary reel. It may merely involve replacing the hook with a clip and modifying the construction of the twine. It is not a gargantuan technological leap. However if this new reel is different from what is already known then the creator (the “inventor”) now has a patentable invention.

They can sell their product with emphasis on the competitive advantage of their reel over ordinary reels. Think of the following tagline alongside a picture of the reel:

“Our Real Reel can save you plenty of twine, and many a struggle”.

And this is where patenting meets marketing.

To conclude, the patenting process starts as follows:

1. Create a new product or solution, no matter how small the difference is to other products or solutions.

2. Ensure that the difference is meaningful, i.e., gives an advantage over other products or solutions.

3. File a patent application.

Brian Albert Dube is a registered Patent Lawyer and Electronic Engineer specialising in Electrical, Electronic, Software and Mechanical inventions. Contact him on +27 (0)76 673 4288 and at admin@dubeiplaw.co.za.

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