[marvy]

So basically you're saying that any independent invention of the same thing is also classified.

[mschuster91]

As soon as you try to patent it, USPTO will look up if there's a similar thing - and if there is and it is "red-flagged", you're screwed...

[marvy]

But suppose you DON'T try to patent it. You just invent it and try use it or sell it. What then?