3. How does an invention become a patent?
The invention must incorporate novelty, an inventive step, and commercial applicability as fundamental requirements. The invention must be described precisely in the patent application and documented in the patent claims. In addition to formal information on the applicant and inventor, an application must be submitted to the patent office for the granting of a patent, and fees must be paid. If a patent is granted, it is valid for 20 years from the application date. Incremental annual fees are due starting from the third year.