What does a patent protect?

A patent is a legal instrument that grants the inventor exclusive rights to their invention for a certain period, generally 20 years from the filing date. This protection covers the original idea behind the invention, specifically how it functions and the novel aspects that differentiate it from existing products or processes. Patents are crucial for encouraging innovation, as they allow inventors to profit from their unique contributions to their fields without fear of unauthorized copying.

Other options do not accurately describe the scope of patent protection. The physical design of a product is typically covered by design rights rather than patents. Financial success relates more to market performance and business strategy, which are outside the realm of patent law. Branding or trademarks protect brand names, logos, and slogans, focusing on brand identity rather than the functional aspects of an invention. Thus, the correct understanding of a patent centers on the protection of the original idea behind an invention.