An invention is the technical solution to a problem that can be protected by an industrial property right. Patent protection can only be obtained if the invention

• is new
• is based on an inventive step
• is industrially applicable.

An invention is protected by filing a patent application with the German Patent Office. By filing the application, the owner secures the right to dispose of the invention alone for up to 20 years. The patent can be applied for on the territory of the Federal Republic of Germany, as a European patent and as an international patent.

The invention must be new on the filing date. Prior publication, e.g. through a presentation at a scientific conference, prevents patenting. The date of filing is also decisive for protecting the invention against competitors.