Crossword puzzle clue "inventor's protections"

PATENT, to obtain a patent (a government grant protecting the rights of an inventor) on

EAVE, to give cover under the eaves of a building

HARDHAT, a protective helmet worn by building workers

HUBCAP, a covering for the hub of a wheel

LIEN, a right to keep possession of property belonging to another person until a debt due by that person is discharged

MASK, to cover, cloak or disguise