patents

kimjam

i have an idea, but no clue what to do. know you have to have it patented, but thats all i know .help ! thanks

geo555

I think you would have to have a working model of your idea before you can get a patent.

epsilondraconis

geo555 wrote: »

I think you would have to have a working model of your idea before you can get a patent.

Absolutely not. No need to have a working model. The best thing to do is file an initial patent, then you know it has been lodged. You then have 18 months or so to modify the patent before it goes into the public domain.
You also need to decide where you want patent coverage - UK only, US etc etc. You can specify individuals countries if required.
Best thing to do is not to disclose the idea to anybody. Whatever you do, don't release any information into the public domain otherwise you are unlikely to get the patent granted.
Good luck with your idea...

harryhound

Even if you get a patent you still have to have someone keeping an eye open to see if it is being copied. Can you afford to do all this groundwork before you see an penny back by selling either the idea or the product?
It is not a hobby.

alanobrien

Somtimes a design registration can be as strong as a patent in terms of IPR protection. Bottom line is can you afford to litigate against a potential infringement ? If not you may be better of licencing the idea once its protected. Good luck with it.

Voyager2002

Patents are expensive, and the process of obtaining and defending them requires a lot of expertise. Something for big companies to do, rather than individuals.

You may well find that design copyright provides you with ample protection inside the UK: use that to negotiate with companies that you trust to commercialise the idea and not rip you off.