Posted by Glen West on July 29, 1998 at 22:09:17:
I hope this fits within the topics of this discussion group.
I am writing a novel, and have a question about a situation I put one of my characters in. He was an officer in the US Army Corps of Engineers. While employed by them, using their equipment, but on his own time, he creates an invention. It's a revolutionary thing (like the first Telephone), with both civilan and military uses. While he's inventing this thing, he's presumed dead (don't ask, necessary for the plot). When he comes back with this invention, I want him to own it, or at minimum a 50-50 split with the military. Upon his return, he will have access to millions of $ to litigate, if necessary, but everyone will want the invention kept secret.
So here's the question: Is this legally possible? What references can I cite? What difficulties will I have with this proposal?
I'd appreciate any info on this, as I'm getting to the point in my book where I have to explain it all. Thanks for any help you can provide.