General Legal Question on Patents

[C2]

I'm considering develpping a new antenna to market but am concerned about patent infringement.

For example, the MacoV58 has a very similar design as the I-10K. The main difference is the matching network where Maco has this shaped as a circle and the I-10K is shaped more like an S (the trombone). As I look at the antennas, they seem to leverage the same basic principle.

So, lets say that I take the Maco and shape the matching ring into a square.

How could I find out where the limit of patent infringement exists?

 

[Moleculo]

You're going to have to pull the patent on the antenna in question and look at its verbiage. Generally patent holders try to make the language as broad as possible, of course, but it can't be overly so. This is were patent attorneys come in. You will need one to help you through the process.

 

[C2]

Sounds logical. I guess it would be near impossible to patent a dipole.

The problem is that I have an idea of how to do it (the antenna), and I'm sure the basic concept came from some existing design or established principle (like there is anything left to "invent"), I just don't know who owns the basic idea that I have.

I guess if I build it, they will come, I will make lots of money, but someone else may take it away.

I Love the American Dream!

 

[Justme]

Be realistic.
The market in 11 meter antenna's is quite full of good brands and designs.
You will be filling up an small niche at best, you need to be competitive in pricing, and most bigger brands already have lots of outlets bringing the price down on transport.

There are no "wonder" antenna's, and if you design an new product you will have to explain in scientific terms why your design will work better as the comparitive types.

Just an fancy name, or different shaped coil isn't enough to make an impression.
Basically you have the 1/4 wave, the 1/2 wave and 5/8 wave antenna on the market, in all shapes and forms, only difference is material or an improved coil with better power handling capacity.

After 100+ years most types of antenna's have passed the reality, the ones that stayed sold are the ones that already proved themselves to work.

Getting into that market as private person will be challenging at best, but i wish you all the luck.


Cor

 

[C2]

LOL

My antenna will be sporting gold plated connectors and an automatic matching network so it can cover all the bands.

 

[Justme]

Silver is an better conductor.

An autotuner and some wire can do that too

 

[Beetle]

But gold's so SHINY. And PURTY! :wub:

 

[Justme]

Polish the silver for an nice shine