since you can get a patent for a process, i'd say yes, this way i don't think you'd have to have a working model when you apply for the patent.
That depends on your company. You should check the employee manual or human resources.
the term 'in coat' is used in the guinea pig fancy by those breeders who wish to show the animal in competition. If a long haired breed has had its coat trimmed by the owner or even if it has been chewed by another piggie, as sometimes happens, then that animal would not be eliglble to be shown in its breed category at a guinea pig show as the coat would be deemed spoiled by the judges who are looking for perfection. Guinea pig shows are much like a miniature crufts...and the owners take the standards very seriously. So one breeder may offer an animal for sale , but descibe it as not in coat... meaning, needs time and attention to bring up it up to show standard... nothing else. it certainly does NOT mean there is anything wrong with the piggie, or that it is bald!! The long haired varieties are not allowed to be cut or clipped in any way in top competition, and the owners of the top prize longhairs roll the coat around small papers in sections to keep it from being damaged, and out of the animals way... at the competition, the owner is given 5 minutes to removes the 'papers' and brush the coat ready to present them looking their glorious best. For pictures and more information see the National Cavy Club website.. hope this helps.