patenteers

Patenteers is a term used to describe individuals or entities that hold a significant number of patents. This can range from independent inventors who have accumulated numerous patents over their career to corporations that strategically build large patent portfolios. The term is not a formal legal designation but rather a descriptive one used in discussions about intellectual property strategy and the patent system.

The practice of accumulating patents can serve various purposes. For companies, a substantial patent portfolio can act as a defensive measure, deterring competitors from suing for infringement. It can also be a source of revenue through licensing agreements, where the patent holder grants permission to others to use their patented technology in exchange for royalties. Furthermore, patents can enhance a company's valuation and market position, signaling innovation and technological leadership.

For individual inventors, amassing patents might be a lifelong pursuit of innovation or a strategy to build a valuable asset that can be licensed or sold. However, the process of obtaining and maintaining patents can be costly and time-consuming, requiring significant investment in legal fees and examination processes. The term "patenteer" is often used in the context of debates about patent reform, particularly concerning the role of non-practicing entities (NPEs), sometimes pejoratively referred to as "patent trolls," who acquire patents primarily to litigate against alleged infringers rather than to develop or sell products.