How would one contact someone in a large company about a new invention/technology without getting the run ar?

Question

I have a great invention that is now patented, a proto type has been built, it works better than i had thought possible. Where to go from here it is weapons platform related.

Answer 1

There are specific agencies within the government that are charged with new technologies such as yours.

They typically are not large groups (say, less than 10-20 people), and are usually staffed by military or ex-military personnel. You may have to search and ask around to find them. Their task is to equip the military with the best, low-cost equipment. Their job is to write contracts and outsource the contracts to qualified developers. Their focus is not high-cost developments, rather it is lower aquisition cost/rapid deployment - they don't want $600 hammers.

Just remember, however, that even though you have the idea patented, the government was the one who issued you the patent. They don't have to honor it - really - if they believe the idea is needed for national security. I'm not kidding.

Going the route of trade secret would give you a little more protection in government contracting, unless they could figure it out themselves.

If you want to protect the idea, you'll need a lot of money because all a patent gives you is a right to sue - so consider going to a defense contractor and assigning the patent rights to them. Why would you do this? Because you can negotiate royalties up front, and even ask for a job in developing the idea. At least you're guaranteed payment up front without the uncertainty of what the government might do. (A bird in hand is worth two in the bush).

Obviously, you're going to need legal advice how to approach the companies. Since you already own the rights to the patent, it isn't like they can steal the idea (you've already made it public in patenting it), but you're going to need to interest them in not only developing idea, but defending the patent after you've assigned it. Sort of like having a 'big brother' with clout.

In my experience, most companies have already identified what it is they do, what their mission is, and know what their bandwidth is for developing new projects. If anyone comes to them with a 'great idea', unless it is a precise fit with what they do and would give them an advantage in the marketplace, they won't take on a project (they can't). Knowing this, you can research companies based on what it is they already do, and find a good fit to improve their existing product line, or become a leader in a product line that nicely 'branches' off of their existing line. You don't really need to reveal very much - just ask them what it is they do and determine if your patent would be an asset in their portfolio. If not, then leave politely. If they proceeded with your idea later, you can sue for all lost profits (unless it is the government, but that is unlikely).

Plan on a process like this taking years (I'd say ~ 3), partly because of legal considerations, but also because even after they agree, the project needs budgeting, people need to be hired, etc. etc.

To find the contact in the large company is going to take some work, it isn't the head of engineering - he is told what to do by management. Instead, find out who is the technology director; probably a VP or technology VP.

You'll need to be prepared with facts and figures, why this project is economically viable and how marketable it is, and I would suggest some flashy brochures or bulletins (in color, on glossy paper, with professional grade photography). The VP is not going to be a technical person really (even if he is technology director): they need to be swayed based on how they perceive your presentation will sway HIS boss. If you come in with a crappy presentation, he knows it would be a tough sell to his management.

Answer 2

I haven't got a clue about contacting a large company. My experience with new products though limited has not been good. If you've patented it and built a proto-typle why not work with some smaller companies to do the manufacturing.

Sub out components to small contractors and do the assembly yourself.

I work with a small company, we spent $10,000 getting a patent on a device which we manufacture in our own faciltiy. It works better than any other, and we sell quite a few of them. But foreign companies are already manufacturing and selling a very similar product now and are closing ground on us quickly.

Most manufacturers are reluctant to buy or pay royalties for someone else's patent.

I think your best bet would be to find a way to manufacture it yourself. You are also going to have to find a buyer. If you can get an order for the product you'll have no problem getting help to manufacture it.

Answer 3

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. 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:

* 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

if you have viable plans(not just a bar napkin).. obtain a patent 1st. Contact a patent attorney..

The start contacting someone that can develop a prototype You'll not get in the door of a big company without one.

You might want to contact the DOD.

Answer 5

Ask for somebody in recruiting first if there is not any longer a recruiting branch then ask for HR. lots of the incredibly super agencies won't worry with a staffing corporation with the aid of fact they have sufficient team to do their recruiting for them. some agencies will bypass so a techniques as black-itemizing the resumes they acquire from a staffing corporation with the aid of fact they do no longer desire to be to blame for the situation expenses.

Answer 6

If you need help I deal specifically in business to business sales so i may be able to open a few doors but it is a full time job to me so i would require a fee. All is negotiable if you are interested.