Patent basics

Coffee break thoughts – What would you tell someone who doesn't know a lot about patents?

I collected the following 10 simple rules:

1. You cannot protect a general idea with a patent.

2. There is no worldwide patent; a patent is limited both in territory and time (valid for maximum 20 years).

3. If you want a patent, you cannot keep your invention secret.

4. You cannot simply buy a patent from the patent office, you will only get a patent if the application and invention fulfils the requirements.

5. Getting a patent takes years.

6. Getting a patent can cost a lot.

7. Every procedure is different, and the final decision is up to the patent office.

8. Some patents are not worth much.

9. A patent is not a guarantee that you can produce and sell your product.

10. A patent is not a guarantee that you are not infringing someone else's patent.

What would you add?