If I have an idea and want to patent it - What steps do I take to do so? Thank you in advance!?

Answer 1

Start at www.patent.gov.uk.

Answer 2

Normally, the first step is to conduct a patent search to see if there is anything out there that would be to close to your invention. A search helps an inventor decide whether it makes sense to move forward. A search also better helps inventors know what is out there so that when they do describe their own inventions they can do it with an eye toward particularly pointing out what makes the invention unique in view of other inventions. We can do a search for you for $450 per search. A search is not required, but if you are trying to start the process right it is always a wise first step.

The next step would be (or if you decide not to do a search the first step would be) to file some type of patent application. Most individual inventors find a provisional application to be best to start. This will keep your costs down, but provide you with a patent pending, which protects you in several ways. First, it locks in your filing date, which is extremely important. Although in the US we are what is called a first to invent nation, meaning the patent goes to the first to invent, procedurally there is a significant benefit to being the first to file an application. Second, there are certain time tables associated with patent law, some of which act to bar your ability to apply for a patent. These bars generally speaking prevent you from applying for a patent more than 12 months after you or others have done certain things, such as sold a product related to the invention. Because others can create a bar without your knowledge it is important to file an application as soon as reasonably possible. You will still need to file a non-provisional within 12 months, but filing a provisional application buys you time to determine whether moving forward with the expense makes sense.

Alternatively, you could just start with a non-provisional application, which is an application that will ultimately lead to an issued patent, assuming the invention is patentable.

Answer 3

contact the U.S. patent office in Washington d.c. You can do this by phone, mail or computer. They will send, fax or E-mail you a patent form. It will include your name, idea and what you specifically want to patent. I had a patent on a song I wrote several years ago. You have to return the form to them with all the specifics of your idea. Including diagrams on how it will work. In my case it was the music and words. They will issue a temporary patent. Then they do the research to see if anyone has been issued a patent on the same idea before you. If they have yours will be rejected. If not they will issue a patent to you. It only last for a few years. Also you are allowed to take someones idea and improve on it. But only for certain refinements. In other words you can take a good idea and make it better but only for so long. A patent doesn't last forever. By anyone

Answer 4

We just got our patent (at work) and it took over 2 years and a few thousand dollars. First try searching the USPTO web site, www.uspto.gov. You may find something very similar out there already. Inspect similar patents to see what you need to submit, idea behind the invention, drawings to explain, features, uses etc. It really is a lot of work. It is a good idea to do as much as you can yourself then contact an attorney who specializes in patent applications. Show them your ground work, may save some time and money. We had to resubmit 2 or 3 times and appeal etc. Prepare to be patient. It is not an overnight process.
Good Luck!

Answer 5

Go to www.uspto.gov, which is the website of the US Patent (and Trade) Office. It's free!

Also document your idea and make sure it's dated and written in pen. Perform a patent search to see if anyone else has had the same idea. You can do this on-line, or if you have dial-up, you should be able to do this at a public library. Once you verify that it is reasonably unique, start the patent application (refer to the uspto website)

This should get you started...

Answer 6

Draw up a plan. Build a working model. Hire a Patent Attorney. The first thing the Attorney will have to do is determine if a patent has already been issued for something similar.

Answer 7

The first thing you must do is find a good patents broker and he'll do what's neccessary. He will do a search to see if it's been done before, if not he'll apply for the patent. Have very deep pockets because it will cost several thousand pounds.

Answer 8

Phone Book... Patent Agents... select one nearest your home... get advice from scratch... probably free in the first instance. I did that and copyright/patent/design registration etc all expertly and professionally looked after by a man I'd never met before. He'll chase up royalties etc. for you too. Not expensive either. (I'm in UK, not US)..