patents are different from copyrights. A patent has a much more
limited term (~17 years) but you own the idea, nobody else can use the
idea without your permission.
DISCLAIMER - I AM NOT AN ATTORNEY
You absolutely don't own the idea.
A patent gives rights to a particular expression or implementation of
an idea and to derivatives based on that expression or implementation.
Other expressions of the idea are still possible as are other uses.
Algorithms are considered mathematics and are not patentable. A
patent can only apply to the particular use of an algorithm for a
specific purpose as a step in a specific application (or range of
similar applications). There may be non-infriging direct uses of the
algorithm as well as non-infriging uses for derivatives of the
algorithm.
It all depends on how clever you are at coming up with novel uses for
your idea and how clever your attorney is at covering those uses and
their derivatives in the patent claims.
If you have questions consult an IP attorney.
DISCLAIMER - I AM NOT AN ATTORNEY
Me, I don't think software patents should be allowed, and I'm not
alone:
http://lpf.ai.mit.edu/Patents/industry-at-risk.html
I don't think so either.
George
