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FOR KIDS: Teens seek invention protection
Increasingly, young researchers seek patents to defend their innovations against theft
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Increasingly, young researchers seek patents to defend their innovations against theft

By Kellyn Betts

Web edition: March 22, 2013

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Stuart Burdford / iStock Photo

While adult engineers, scientists and other inventors submit most patent applications, there is no age limit. This year, 17 of the Intel Science Talent Search semifinalists and finalists – all teens -- either have applied for a patent or have already received one. Additionally, another 20 semifinalists and finalists plan to seek a patent on their inventions.

Their experiences suggest that all students who invent something, even if they don’t participate in a science fair, should at least know about patents. And if they are interested in obtaining a patent, they should apply as early as possible! If they wait too long, they could lose the opportunity to guard their “intellectual property” against theft.

Visit the new Science News for Kids website and read the full story: Teens seek invention protection

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