Originally Posted by Trash Hauler
parabellum
I wood think Boeings body gear steering was patented nearly 40 years ago? I thought US patents only lasted from 14 to 20 years (distinct from copyright that can last up to 120 years). I think your "french" connection is spreading furphies!
TH
Lots of ways of extending the IP protection. F'rinstance, copyright in the designs would be one way - let's say Joe Sutter did the designs, he's still kicking, so the clock (at least in the UK) won't start until his time's up and then it's 50 years. The clock arguably won't start until the last 747 designer/draughtsman dies.
Also little tweaks might be patentable and then there's design protection.
Easier to just cough up!!
IF that is the problem.