Imagine this. Someone files for a patent. In the 40 years it takes for approval, a complete industry is created around the very idea covered by the pending patent. Furthermore, the industry proves to be wildly successful with wide use of the technology. Once the patent is approved, the holder proceeds to sue companies around the globe for using (not for manufacturing infringing products but for using) the technology covered. The holder seeks multi-million dollar payments from these end users.
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