[Dave Willis]

http://www.gardinerpolesystems.co.uk/acatalog/Patent-News.html

[Spruce]

Now I know the reason why my Intellect isn't working these days - its been patented. 

Thanks for solving this mystery Dave.

[AuRavelling79]

http://www.gardinerpolesystems.co.uk/acatalog/Patent-News.html

'ims not daaaarft fer a Cornishmun!

[SherwoodCleaningSe]

You can hardley blame them for protecting their IP, after all do you remember that gardiners were the first to put a lateral clamp on a pole then over a year later another company made their own version and said that they have innovated the market and this is the first lateral clamp in the industry.  What's more useful trade marking a name or patenting a really good idea.

Simon.

[Spruce]

tbh I knew all about patents on actual inventions, but this is the first time I have heard of an Intellectual Patent on a product.

So my understanding is the no one will be able to copy the stepped tube concept in any form. The spring loaded lateral clamps are protected by their own patent, but the telescopic nesting is the interesting one.

All telescopic poles have to close in a certain way that makes them as compact as possible. What are the implications for existing pole manufacturers, ie Facelift and what about those who are in the process of starting, Aquadapter?