Didn't Robert Kearns actually build the thing though? Working prototype demoed at Ford? A movie is a poor source for history, so maybe that's all made up. Also from the movie, Kearns talked about a factory but the automakers didn't think he could really supply the quantity and quality they needed.

I understand why the patent office doesn't require a model anymore, but it would be kind of cool if there was a demonstration aspect to the application process.