Question

McDonald has invented a machine that harvests corn in the field, automatically shucks the corn from the husk, and peels the kernels from the cob, separating everything for easy disposal or further use. Assuming that all requirements are met for a patent, the length of his patent protection will be __________.a. 14 years from the completion of the invention. b. 20 years from the completion of the invention. c. 14 years from the filing of the application with the U.S. Patent and Trade Office. d. 20 years from the filing of the application with the U.S. Patent and Trade Office.

Answer 1

McDonald's machine for harvesting and processing corn would be protected by a patent for 20 years from the filing date with the U.S. Patent and Trade Office.

Step-by-step explanation:

The length of patent protection for McDonald's invention that harvests, shucks, and peels corn would be 20 years from the filing of the application with the U.S. Patent and Trade Office. This duration applies to most patents on new inventions and is intended to provide a balance between giving the inventor time to recoup their investment and preventing them from maintaining a permanent monopoly. The inventor is granted the exclusive legal right to make, use, or sell the invention during this period. It is worth noting that while patents incentivize innovation, the system is not perfect, with only a fraction of the invention's economic value typically returning to the inventor, and in rapidly advancing industries, patents may quickly become obsolete.

Answer 2

Correct option is (d)

Step-by-step explanation:

Utility patent is granted to protect an innovation from being copied by others. Utility patent is granted to protect the functionality or usage of the product while design patent is granted to protect the way the product looks like its appearance or ornamentation.

Utility patent is granted for 20 years from the date the application is file with the US trade office while design patent is granted for 14 years from the date of invention.

Here, McDonald's invention is granted utility patent that protects the product for 20 years from the date application is filed with the US patent office.