Inventions?

[CowboyMcCoy]

I have come across--in my own mind--a rather clever idea for an invention. I researched it and indeed it does not exist to my knowledge. So where do I start? I would need a patent for it and I don't know how to go about that. Secondly, I would need an investor or engineer...

I don't have enough money to fund the idea, but I'm optimistic about the possibilities of finding an investor.

I just don't know where to start in terms of making the actual design so that it can't be somewhat the same design with a few variations for some copy cat to come along and take it.

I won't say what it is, but it has to do with energy and a way to make it.

[Muhast]

great question. I came up with a GREAT outdoors idea for camping and I have no clue how to get started. Glad you asked!

[tomson75]

I'd start at the patent office.

[SaltwaterServr]

You start with a really good patent attorney and the engineer you mentioned. The attorney might be able to put you in contact with a person to do your schematics for the patent application.

As you go along with the development, document, document, document. Photos, notes, everything.

Avoid the TV Invention submission corp.

Once you've got the production prototype designed you'll need to work up a business plan to attract investors. What makes your product, marketing, and business plan an attractive alternative to a low risk investment in the stock markets or in another business?

No part of bringing a product to market it easy.

[Hostile]

I have an idea for something too. I may really like this thread.

[TheKey]

I would recommend a patent agent to do the detailed search and filings for you. They are way cheaper than using a patent lawyer and do basically the same thing. You will need to contact one and fill out a detailed description of your invention and they will make sure it doesn't exist, then file your application. I have used one before from Missouri, the name of the company is called "Focus on Patents." Look em up!

[CowboyMcCoy]

OK, I think my idea is great. I'm wondering now who would I go to that would take me seriously. I draw like crap. I'm not an engineer, nor mathematician (and this will take some serious math, algebra, calculus) but I have a really good idea. I'm almost positive it would be useful for some things...

When I was a young lad, still a single digit midget, I wanted to invent band aids with medication already on them...I hated that gooey stuff. Band Aid beat me to it, not sure when the patent was made..LOL

Anyway, I've been sitting on this one for a long time and can find no way that it wouldn't work with the right engineer.

[trickblue]

Do NOT use those patent shysters that advertise on TV. They ripped a friend of mine off several years ago and basically stole her idea...

[CowboyMcCoy]

Do NOT use those patent shysters that advertise on TV. They ripped a friend of mine off several years ago and basically stole her idea...

I didn't plan on it.

[StanleySpadowski]

What do you think of the idea for a tombstone that has a small video screen on the back to run a slide show with audio of the person's life story?

It would also need a solar charger to supply power.

Think that it's something that could find a market?

[LeonDixson]

What do you think of the idea for a tombstone that has a small video screen on the back to run a slide show with audio of the person's life story?

It would also need a solar charger to supply power.

Think that it's something that could find a market?
Yeah, but I think it already exists. Not sure though.

[TheCount]

Something to keep in mind is that even if the product does not exist, that does not mean it's not already patented, thanks to the screwy system we have here in the U.S.

There are plenty of companies that keep troves of patents with absolutely no plans to ever actually make anything from them, just waiting to sue someone.

Probably not particularly helpful for the exact situation you're in, but I'd recommend this podcast for anyone thinking about venturing into the land of invention: http://www.thisamericanlife.org/radio-archives/episode/441/when-patents-attack

[tupperware]

I have what I consider to be a very good idea for an invention. Since I'm broke and couldn't go through with it if I wanted to, I'll give the invention to anyone via PM for $50 via Paypal.

[Signals]

If you need a prototype created you may want to contact someone who has these...

ZboxMsSz5Aw

[Heisenberg]

If you need a prototype created you may want to contact someone who has these...

ZboxMsSz5Aw

Holy crap. That's the coolest thing I've seen in a LONG time.

[Wimbo]

If you are into inventions and the VC process, this show is for you:

http://www.localsharktank.com/wp-content/uploads/Shark-Tank1.jpg

http://abc.go.com/shows/shark-tank

[Hoofbite]

Seeing that it involves energy, I'd guess the main thing to look for is theoretical possibility.

See if you can talk to someone who would know if your idea is even feasible.