How do I go about getting a patent on just an idea with only a rough design, no production or prototypes?

Answer 1

send this idea to me, and i'll sort it out for you

Answer 2

One does not need a prototype, but must have a drawing, which need not be to scale.

The drawing must be labeled for all parts, with a written description and reference to the drawing, explaining the function of each part, and the intended use of the product.

A patent search should accompany the application. One should search back at least 20 years and some major foreign countries
in order to ascertain that one is not infringing on a previous patent..
The USPO does not REQUIRE this search, but recommends one.

One can access on the Internet, USPO, and print an application.
All pertinent information is available.

BEWARE of Internet sites that promise to obtain patents for you, promise to promote and market the product, make a prototype, etc.
Many of these are SCAMS. They will require an initial fee, then a contract for a specific time period. During that time one will receive "exciting interest" in the product, and more money needed, under the terms of the contract. If one succumbs to this, READ THE FINE PRINT or use an attorney.
Usually ends up with up to $10,000.00, LOST.
Attorneys are not cheap, but safe.


This is only a portion of the pitfalls and difficulties in getting a product to market. A long process.

I wish you luck

Answer 3

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

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

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

Getting a Patent:
* Patent It Yourself (11th Edition) by David Pressman
* Patents and How to Get One : A Practical Handbook by U.S. Department of Commerce
* How To Make Patent Drawings Yourself: A Patent It Yourself Companion by Jack Lo
* The Inventor's Notebook: A Patent It Yourself Companion by Fred E. Grissom

What to do Next:
* From Patent To Profit: Secrets & Strategies For The Successful Inventor, Third Edition by Bob Dematteis
* How to License Your Million Dollar Idea: Everything You Need To Know To Turn a Simple Idea into a Million Dollar Payday, 2nd Edition by Harvey Reese
* The Inventor's Bible: How to Market and License Your Brilliant Ideas by Ronald Louis Docie
* The Complete Idiot's Guide ® to Cashing in On Your Inventions by Richard Levy

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

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

Answer 4

The process of patenting is not very difficult.If you live in UK .Go to the UK patent office website and it will explain the whole processs.Similarly in US visit www.uspto.gov.You do not need to have an exact design or prototypes but without them your patent could be virtually worthless.
The skill of patent drafting is to create a legal document that will protect your intellectual propert right [your concept].This requires a great deal of skill gained through experience.If you use a patent lawyer,expect to spend up to 10.000 pounds [UK patent only].Before going any further,I suggect you spend a few weeks searching the USPTO [quite easy,follow instructions at their website] to see if any previously issued patents are similar to your idea.There are several millions of existing patents and thousands of new applications daily.Only about 1 in 100 patents issued ever goes into commercial production.

Answer 5

Yes getting a patent is very expensive because there is more than 150 countries (including China) in the Patent Cooperation Treaty and you have to file your application in each country in the right language. But it is a lot more costly to defend it in court. IBM is the world's leader in patents and if they contest your patent you are as good as dead, with the lawyers teams they have.
I would stick to the copyright protection which allows you to hide some critical parts of your program. But you need to have a working program for that. So, keep on working...

Answer 6

Get a Copyright on your idea from the Patent Office first - this will give you time to develop you idea to submit for a patent. I've done this several times - it somewhat protects your idea BUT you have to get the patent as soon as you can ! Good luck !!!