Version 1.1 of the definition has been released. Please help updating it, contribute translations, and help us with the design of logos and buttons to identify free cultural works and licenses!
Free patent protocols
There are many ways to publish an invention in a way that is free for reuse.
The simplest way to publish an invention for free reuse is:
- Publish the invention details online
- State clearly that it is free to reuse
- Optionally: file a provisional patent in your jurisdiction (to ensure your patent office finds the provisional in even a cursory prior-art search)
Existing protocols
As of 2013, open protocols which could be modified to be free include:
- The Open Invention Network is dedicated to building a patent pool that can be used freely as long as you don't sue Linux, with a standard license agreement.
- The BiOS (Biological Open Source) framework is a shared agreement to not assert IP rights against each others's use of the technology to do research, or to develop products either for profit or for public good. "BiOS-compatible agreements can support both freedom to operate, and freedom to cooperate.''
- The GreenXchange provides a framework for both free and compulsory-license-fee (non-free) reuse of inventions. Their "Intellectual Property" license may be an option for truly free patent sharing (but the detail page seems down at present).
- The Nutriset Online Patent Usage agreement is a negotiation-free way to use their patent at no cost.