A patent offers many benefits, including:

• As a patent owner, you can exclusively use your invention commercially for up to 20 years – and so prevent others from producing or selling it. During this time, you can recoup the costs of research and development and make money from your invention.

• You can trade your patent as you would other goods. For example, you can sell it or you can licence it, which means allowing others to use it under certain conditions. You can also pledge it or bequeath it.  

• You can caution anyone who copies your invention on the basis of your patent rights. Problems can therefore possibly be solved without having to take legal action. In a second step, you can bring an action for infringement before the Federal Patent Court.

• Patents are proof of a company's innovative strength. They can enhance a company's reputation, help with marketing and facilitate the search for investors.   

Is it worth patenting your invention? See also Alternatives to patenting.