From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
Departmental memo advising against publishing details of patented engine lubrication due to the weakness of the patents.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 16\1\ Scan036 | |
| Date | 11th December 1912 | |
| R.R. 425 (100 H) (PP 12. 11.10.12) E.P. 2713. ROLLS-ROYCE LIMITED, NIGHTINGALE ROAD, DERBY. TELEGRAMS: "ROYCAR," DERBY. TELEPHONES: 813 (Two Lines). 476, (4 Lines.) DEPARTMENTAL MEMO. This column is for Name of Person addressed. Mr Johnson DATE. 11-12-12 Re Description of Engine Lubrication for Automotor Journal. TBB9/L111212 Y740 With reference to the attached matter, I should like to suggest that it is not wise to publish a description of the patented parts, because if I remember rightly, our patents for engine lubrication are weak owing to anticipation by an American who patented variable lubrication connected to the throttle for a steam engine. I am aware that when an invention is patented it is to all intents and purposes published, but owing to the weakness of our patents I think we should refrain from bringing it too much before the public, as it is undoubtedly good and may be copied extensively when it is found that our patents are anticipated. This sheet must be filed with the correspondence to which it refers. | ||