Patent Newz Box
From garage to glory
The history of innovation is filled with tales of ordinary people with extraordinary ideas who dared to dream big. These stories showcase how a simple idea, fueled by passion, perseverance, and the strategic use of patents, can transform a garage start up into a global brand.
Hewlett-Packard - A Stanford Basement to Silicon Valley Giant: In 1939, Bill Hewlett and David Packard, both engineering graduates from Stanford University, started tinkering in a rented garage. Their first product? An audio oscillator, a device used to test sound equipment. Recognizing the potential of their invention, they filed for a patent and named their company Hewlett-Packard (HP). Over the years, HP leveraged the patent system to protect its innovations in areas like calculators, computers, and printers, transforming from a two-man operation into a global leader in technology.
Apple - From a Byte-Sized Idea to a Tech Titan: In the late 1970s, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, working in Jobs' parents' garage, developed the Apple I computer. This revolutionary machine, built with an emphasis on user-friendliness, sparked a personal computer revolution. Apple secured patents on key aspects of the Apple I design and interface, and later for the iconic Macintosh computer. These patents, along with strategic marketing, propelled Apple to become a household name and a dominant force in the tech industry.
The LEGO Brick - A Simple Idea that Built an Empire: Ole Kirk Christiansen, a Danish carpenter, began crafting wooden toys in the early 1900s. In 1932, he developed a new interlocking brick system, initially called "Automatic Binding Bricks." These early LEGO bricks, inspired by the concept of modularity, laid the foundation for the company's future success. LEGO has continuously innovated and expanded its offerings, but the core interlocking brick design remains protected by a robust patent portfolio. Today, LEGO is a global phenomenon, captivating children and adults alike with its endless building possibilities.
Explore more trivia & patent fun facts!

The Ultimate Patent Guide
Your Patent Playbook & Answers to 100+ FAQs