In B.C. Canada and need to patent something?

Question

We have an idea and want it to be patented. We dont have a lot of money right now but want to protect it. We would like to know where to go to have this done and what is the full process of getting something patented. We have also heard of the poor mans patent? Any help or someone who has done this process before that could help us would be great.

Answer 1

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 CIPO's definition: http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/sc_mrksv/cipo/patents/faq_pt-e.html#b

Be sure to read what else the CIPO (Canadian Intellectual Property Office) has to say about patents.

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

* 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

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 2

Below is the link to the patent office.