There's a patent issue that involves a number of us on the Creek and we're trying to do some research on our own to determine the next course of action. More or less, there's someone out there who basically says they have the patent to insert a nail into wood by any means. That's a simplification of it, but it's very very close to the argument that's being used against us. It has nothing to do with hammers and nails, but it shows the type of thing they are claiming.

However, it reviewing the patents involved, we can't see anywhere where that broad range is in the patent.

In reviewing one of the patents, there is a list of "Citations" which reference previous inventions by others.

I was wondering if someone who may know could explain exactly what a "Citation" is and how that impacts that particular patent. Are citations used to simple cite similar things that have been given patents, thus showing that there is a history of patents in that area? Or are they previous patents that have been bought out by the top level patent holder? There is no explanation of what a Citation is on the site we're reviewing.

Any insight?

By the way, the person does have a valid patent for a device. In the above example, it would be as if he had the patent on an air nailer. Yes, he has that, but is claiming if you use a hammer, then you are violating his patent. He's bullying people and threatening lawsuits and we'd collectively like to bring this to light and expose the fact he doesn't own the rights he tells everyone he does, and let us all get on with our work.

Thanks-