Expert: Shannon Moore - 2/11/2008

Question
Hi Shannon,
I recently had an idea for a new invention and I have no idea how to start.  My
question is:
1) How do I go about starting the process?
2) How do I get a patent?
3) What comes after the patent?

I believe I can get moving if I get these answered, so hopefully you can help.

Thanks,
Bryce

Answer
Dear Bryce,

It is not possible to protect ideas but rather the representation of that idea.

To protect an original invention OR a significant improvement to an existing product, a patent would be filed. Here's the USPTO's definition: http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/pac/doc/general/index.html#patent

NOLO is a great, free informational site. Also, be sure to read what the USPTO (United States Patent & Trademark Office) has to say about patents.

Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet.

http://www.invention-ifia.ch/ -- International Federation of Inventors' Associations
http://www.uiausa.org/ -- United Inventors Association
http://inventors.about.com/od/localorgs/ -- Directory of Local USA & Canada Groups

There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.

http://ezinearticles.com/?Patent---How-To-Get-One&id=144108 – Patent – How to Get One by Michael Russell
http://ezinearticles.com/?Invented-Something?-Get-a-Patent&id=112807 – Invented Something? Get a Patent by Thomas Choo
http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Select-a-Patent-Attorney&id=63502 – How to Select a Patent Attorney by Lisa Parmley
http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Patent-Your-Invention&id=15184 – How to Patent Your Invention by Neil Armand
http://ezinearticles.com/?Can-You-Start-Selling-Your-Invention-Before-Patenting-... – Can You Start Selling Your Invention Before Patenting It? by Xavier Pillai
http://ezinearticles.com/?Invention-Help...--Dont-Get-Scammed!&id=64372 – Invention Help…Don't Get Scammed! by Emmet Press
http://ezinearticles.com/?Inventors-Make-Sure-Your-Invention-is-a-Success!&id=11... – Inventors: Make Sure Your Invention is a Success! by Lisa Parmley

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Please let me know if there are any other questions that I can answer for you. Thank you!

Warmest regards,
Shannon Moore
http://www.tmexpress.com
http://tmexpress.blogspot.com