Re: Show how to build a CNC machine from the very beginning to the end
As I recall, in general a U.S. patent is only valid for 17 years - in some circumstances they can be extended but that is unusual afaik. In principle, a patent gives the holder a legal foundation to sue you for infringement of their intellectual property. I am not an attorney so I don't know all the ins and outs but it is not a silver bullet. It is unlikely, but possible, that a patent holder could come after you if you make a few of their Spacely Sprocket for your own use. If you make a thousand to sell, you might want to have an attorney if the patent is still enforceable. (Your mileage may vary).
If it weren't for the last minute nothing would ever get done.
Jim