It is all there, publicly available and little used.
Companies for years have dumped billions of $$ developing and refining novel devices and processes, which are disclosed in patent applications. As part of the patent examination process, a search is performed on each patent application, and the results are compared to the invention. Only if the invention is novel, non-obvious, and meets other requirements, does it issue into a patent. 
We know these devices and processes described in issued patents are novel and non-obvious.
Once a patent has been issued, the patent owner is allowed to have exclusive use of his/her invention (generally) for twenty years from the filing date.
After that period, the patent expires, and the public is free to use this invention, forever. The expired patent is a gift from the federal government.
Many patents expire each year, but only a tiny percentage is used by other entities.
If you would like novel technology, ask us. We can link you up with technology in your industry to improve your products.
LESSON: If you want your company to get ahead, take what is given to you.
Zale Patent Law, Inc.
570-878-5000 (text/voice)
(All photos are by Unknown Authors and are licensed under CC BY-SA.)
