> Others, who are closer to this beekeeper, have told of stories of
> suing all the bee supply companies for a share of their screened
> bottom board sales.  Most of us have really been hoping that this
> was a joke.  Not.  Apparently the patent was granted on 10/22/02.

I am not a lawyer, but I understand that patents are invalid where there is
"Prior art" - in other words, where the design has been used previously.
Since many people have used screened bottom boards before 10/22/02, a patent
granted on that day for the use of screened bottom boards will not stand up
if contested.

It may still be possible to patent a particular design for screened bottom
boards, if that design is new and innovative.

No doubt there is a lawyer or two on the list who can validate or correct
what I have said.

Frank.
-----
The very act of seeking sets something in motion to meet us;
something in the universe, or in the unconscious responds as if
to an invitation.  - Jean Shinoda Bolen

http://WWW.BlessedBee.ca