Invented something at work? You are entitled to compensation
You made a technical invention at work? Then it does not automatically belong to the employer, but he can secure it. In return, you are entitled to inventor's compensation. This is governed by the Employee Inventions Act.
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What you should do now
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1. Notify the invention
Notify the service invention to the employer in writing and verifiably.
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2. Await the claiming
If he claims the invention, the rights pass to him; then your compensation claim arises.
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3. Assess the compensation
The amount depends on the economic value and your share in the invention.
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4. Assert the claim
If the compensation is not forthcoming, demand it in writing; in a dispute, expert advice helps.
Frequently asked questions
Does my invention at work automatically belong to the employer?
Not automatically. A service invention you must first notify to the employer. Only when he 'claims' it do the rights pass to him. If he does so, you are entitled to reasonable inventor's compensation under the Employee Inventions Act. If he does not claim the invention, it becomes free and you can exploit it yourself.
How high is the inventor's compensation?
That depends on the economic value of the invention for the employer and on your share in it (the task, your own contribution, operational resources). There are recognized guidelines for the calculation. If the compensation is not forthcoming or is too low, you can assert it; because of the complexity, expert advice is sensible.
Take action now
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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.