What is the difference between an invention and a discovery?

An invention is the creation of a new device, process or technology, while a discovery is the uncovering of something already existing. In North Carolina, intellectual property laws protect inventions and discoveries. Inventions must generally be something new and useful, and must not already exist. It is not sufficient to improve or modify what is already out there; the invention must be something entirely new. When an inventor creates a new device or process that does not exist, they can apply for a patent to protect their invention. A patent gives the inventor exclusive rights to make, use, and sell the invention. A discovery occurs when something that already exists is found or uncovered. Discoveries do not require any new invention or creativity. An example could be a scientific discovery like a new species of plant or animal, or a discovery of a new use for an existing product. Discoveries are not patented, but must still be protected from unauthorized use and replication. Copyright law may be used to protect a discovery from unauthorized reproduction, and trademarks can be used to protect a name associated with a discovery. In North Carolina, intellectual property laws are in place to protect inventions and discoveries. By securing exclusive rights to inventions and discoveries, inventors and discoverers can benefit from their creative efforts and discoveries.

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