IEEE Proposes New Class of Patents

cheesedog writes "The IEEE Spectrum proposes a new type of patent that wouldn't require formal examination, would cost significantly less than traditional patents, would last only 4 years from date of first commercial product, and which wouldn't carry a presumption of validity. These 'limited patents' would be attractive to innovators in the fast-moving high-tech industry that can't wait 18-24 months for patent approval, and would help improve patent quality by populating the USPTO's prior-art database more efficiently. Additional commentary on this proposal is available."

The question is ...

[didit]

... did they patent this new class of patents?

Re:Let's see....

[LaCosaNostradamus]

I betcha I can come up with a method of posting even faster than THAT, using an innovative mechanism derived from non-obvious technological advances. Claim#1: ....

Re:The question is ... Yes, but...

[Pusene]

Why not outsource the whole courtsystem? With todays teleconferencing tech, the jugde could come from India and a couple of Canadians could provide security in the courtroom....