The original intent of the system was that you share your idea, people don't re-invent the wheel and they pay you a reasonable fee for the pleasure. Unfortunately, and possibly inevitably, people begin to game the system. Governments, the slowest mover in the game, are always playing catch up. The result: monopolies, wasted capital on litigation, and increased lobbying to reinforce a bad system. What's the answer? FRAND? Compulsory Licensing? Mandatory Mediation? or Should we return invention to it's mother---Necessity!

Taking it public might not be the best course of action. Were you awarded costs on the action? The appeal process is quite limited in what they can look at (based on my knowledge of N. American law). You are right though, they are trying to suck you dry. It's one of many tactics that they will use. On the plus side, if you make it public, you could potentially have people willing to donate to your defense.