What is the difference between an invention and an idea?
An invention is a new product or process that is created by an individual or a group of individuals. An invention is usually an original concept, and is often protected by intellectual property laws such as patents. This means that only the inventor has the right to manufacture, use, or sell the invention. An idea is an abstract thought or concept that may or may not be able to be developed into a real-world product or service. An idea, unlike an invention, is not protected by intellectual property laws. Generally, other people can use, build upon, or even copy the idea without any legal consequences. In Texas, ideas are not considered intellectual property and cannot be protected. However, inventors may have the ability to protect certain aspects of their inventions through patents, trademarks, or copyrights.
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