If a component cannot be reverse‑engineered easily, it may work better as a trade secret. If transparency strengthens your position or compliance, a patent might be the better route.
Ask yourself: do I patent or keep this as a trade secret?
This choice reduces long‑term risk. Revealing something that should remain private is expensive to undo.
Implication for you: more control over cost and exposure.
Choose the protection type that strengthens your position long term.