Top 10 Outrageous Patent Attempts - Including 5 That Actually Worked

By Anthony Shields
Minyanville

If the Apple vs. Samsung trial has taught us anything, it's that knowing what's patented and what isn't can save you a lot of heartbreak. Although at first glance copyright law seems straightforward and understandable, you'd be surprised by the crazy things people have attempted to have patented, and perhaps more so by the attempts that were successful.

The following is a list of the most absurd things people and corporations have failed at -- and succeeded in -- making their personal property.

SLIDESHOW: OUTRAGEOUS PATENTS

Top 10 Outrageous Patent Attempts