software <> inventions

That's what opensource people say. I'm just curious about what they have to say about R&D of algorithms. How can a company who specializes in say creating efficient algorithms for physical and mathematical modelling still secure a profit while still making it's finds available to everyone? In such a senior I don't see how software <> invention.

Just reflecting on the opensource model....

I'm not sure but this might be an exception to the rule.

The main problem with software patents is that they are expensive leaving small software houses out of the competition.