Ask HN: Can a metrology tool be patented? (ISO | USA)

[AceyMan]

I have ideas for specific designs including placard information and stylistic effects (think Voyager LP) and wonder if I can (and should) be patent protected.

[eesmith]

While this sounds like a trademark issue (see https://www.uspto.gov/trademarks/basics/trademark-patent-cop... ), in general the more fundamental question is:

How much are you willing to pay a lawyer to sue someone if there's infringement?

If it's less than the cost of a car, you probably shouldn't worry about it.

Secondarily, how much are you willing to spend to monitor Amazon sales and get them to shut down infringing uses?

See also https://ocpatentlawyer.com/design-patent-cost/ .

When I read "Voyager LP" I think https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voyager_Golden_Record , available as a three-disc LP vinyl record box set.

[hulitu]

As an IP lawyer once said: everything can be patented. Long live Mickey Mouse.

[AceyMan]

@dang please correct an|a substitution [head_desk]