InventHelpis for everyone. You can do it from scratch or patent an existing product. There are some basic steps to follow to protect your invention. These steps include finding out whether your invention has already been made or patented, creating a prototype, and obtaining a patent. In this article, we will cover the basics of invention. Listed below are some tips to make the process easier. This article is not intended to be a guide to patenting a new product.

Inventing is for everyone

Inventing is for everyone! We've all had ideas for new products or improved ways to do things, but do we know how to make those ideas a reality? An inventor's goal is to improve a product, service, or process, making it better for the customer. Their products may be faster, easier to use, healthier, cheaper, or more environmentally friendly. In addition to functionality, some of their inventions may also be aesthetically pleasing or lighter than the original.

The key to creating a successful InventHelpis to visualize and conceptualize it. It can happen when your mind is off-topic or even while you're sleeping. It can also happen in "eureka!" moments. Albert Einstein, for example, had one of these moments when he solved the general theory of relativity. He later went on to invent polytetrafluoroethylene accidentally. The Institute for Social Inventions compiled some of the ideas submitted by readers.

Finding out if your invention already exists

If you're considering patenting your invention, the first step is to find out if someone else has already patented it. The best way to find out if your invention has already been patented is to conduct a comprehensive patent search. This includes all published applications, issued patents, inventions described in other publications, and other works with similar structures or properties. Using the two databases maintained by the United States Patent and Trademark Office can help you begin the search process. In addition, patent and trademark resource centers are available in most libraries across the country. These centers offer experts to assist with searching and answering your questions.

The best way to ensure that your idea has not already been patented is to perform a patent search. The process is easy and inexpensive, and you can use an online patent search tool, such as LegalZoom, to conduct your patent search. Once you have discovered if there's an existing patent, you can file a provisional patent application. Patents provide exclusive rights to an invention and protect the inventor from intellectual property theft.

Creating a prototype

Creating a prototype for an invention idea is one of the best ways to test the functionality of your new idea. Using a physical model will expose any design flaws and problems you may have overlooked during your brainstorming sessions. Developing a prototype of your invention idea is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your idea and get a patent. However, it is not as easy as it sounds. There are several steps you can take to make a prototype of your idea.

One way to create a prototype is to buy the materials you need to make the design. If you're developing a simple invention, it is easier and cheaper to use inexpensive materials to create a prototype. A plastic shapelock mold can be purchased for about $25 for a small set of parts, and can be reused dozens of times. Using a Makerbot can also be a cost-effective option to create a functional prototype.

Getting a patent

If you have an idea for an invention and want to get a patent for it, you must first determine whether your invention is marketable. There are numerous reasons why your idea might not be patentable, but a common reason is that it is similar to other inventions. If you have the same idea as another inventor, you can apply for a patent pending status, but you will have to pay a higher fee to get a full non-provisional patent. In addition, the process can be very time-consuming, and if you do not have the necessary expertise, you may consider hiring a patent attorney to assist you. However, hiring a patent attorney is not an inexpensive option.

Getting a patent for an invention idea requires a process known as the US patent application process. The process is meant to ensure that an idea is truly unique and innovative. Inventors should first check for prior disclosures to ensure that their idea does not conflict with other inventions. Before applying for a patent, it is important to check articles, historical libraries, and art to determine if anyone has already used the same idea.

Getting a license to sell your invention

There are many ways to get a license to sell your invention idea. Online stores are an excellent source of invention license companies. Industry trade associations can also provide you with names of firms and contacts. Trade shows are an excellent way to meet potential buyers and research your competitors. Trade show websites also feature lists of exhibitor companies. The Better Business Bureau and United Inventors Association can also be helpful resources. Once you find a company that interests you, make sure you contact them to discuss the possibility of licensing your invention idea.

When choosing a manufacturer, it is important to know the company's sales potential. If the manufacturer has a limited market, you may end up losing a decent royalty. Similarly, if the manufacturer is unlikely to receive a substantial amount of sales, you should make sure that you negotiate a royalty rate that benefits both you and the manufacturer. It's important to remember that the manufacturer also has risk to take: if you get your idea licensed, you'll have to build, market, and sell the product - and you'll need to secure a patent to protect your creation.