Are there trees protected by patents?

Question

I am considering introducing the Bε tree indexes in an open source project. As far as I understand, the PerconaFT key storehouse uses them as a base for their fractal indexes, and they claim that they use several US patents - No. 8,185,551 and No. 8,489,638. I am not a lawyer, so I have a question, does this mean that no one can practically implement the Bε Tree indices in their software product?

Answer 1

This question seems more appropriate for a legal advice forum, or perhaps even for a hired lawyer. The IP Law is a rather confusing and complex subject, and you can get formal legal advice before continuing.

I don’t know if you will find anyone here who wants to tell you that you finally can or cannot use the patented software in an open source project.