how can i get a patent on an invention?

Answer 1

If you think you have a great invention and want to have it patented, you must file an application with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The process can be complicated. Your idea must be explained clearly to a patent examiner to determine whether it is new and useful. You must have an illustration of the device in action. Many people hire patent attorneys, which can be very expensive, to make sure that their patents conform to the U.S. Patent Office rules. If you get a patent, your invention will be assigned a unique number and you alone will have the right to sell your device.

Answer 2

Visit Free Patents Online and begin with a "patent search".

This step will be necessary to determine that no one else has invented anything like yours before. Many, many people offer the patent search service - but I found that I learned an awful lot doing it for myself.

What you'll do is study any patents that have been issued for products similar to yours.

You may discover that someone has had your idea and patented it before you can. In the process you should discover what information will be required to file your own patent application.

Patents are classified by category. Find your invention's possible classification code(s) and search for anything similar. Those you find that are similar will be very instrumental in the patent application process. They will establish what has been tried before - against which you will pitch why your invention is better, different, more needed, etc. They can form a basis from which your patent application is created.

By the way - the patent service organizations can do all that work for you. Your choice. Pay their fee and hope they understand what you've created.

Or research what others have done, learn from their approach and dignify your invention with your own knowledge of its value.

You can then prepare the patent application. This is a project you will understand in depth if you have done a thorough patent search.

If you'd rather hire someone to help you or to do it for you - you can find freelance writers to write the patent application (less pricey than an attorney) as well as freelance patent lawyers on elance.com when you're ready to file.

Answer 3

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. 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

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

I'd start with a patent lawyer.

Answer 5

you need a patent attorney and something like $3000-6000 to get going