Posted by Brian on July 19, 1998 at 15:57:20:
In Reply to: PATENT INFO DESPERATELY NEEDED!!! posted by Matt Moore on June 22, 1998 at 14:02:58:
: I am desperate for a large sum of money right now, and have come up with an idea for a new unique massage device. I would like to sell this idea to a company(for a large sum of money, obviously)but I don't know how to go about doing so. I assume that for optimum money and security, I need to get this idea patented, but can I do this with just self drawn blueprints of my idea, or do I need to make my own prototype? Also, what is involved in the patenting process? How much does it cost to get a patent? And, for anybody who has done this before, what chance do I have of getting a decently large sum of money offered up front by the company who is buying my idea? If there is anybody out there who can answer any, some, or all of my questions(should I be so lucky), I would be extremely grateful for your knowledge on the subject. Please E-Mail me at:
: dmoore2288@AOL.com Thank you for trying to help me beat the minimum wage, 6-day a week, bi-weekly paycheck job routine!
: matt moore
Matt,
I am no expert, but I have one patent already and am currently in the process of obtaining two more...in a matter of weeks! Yeah!
Anyway, its a long, but worthwhile process. The hard part is finding the right patent agency. Look around, is all I can say. Ask for information by post, not E-mail. Make them sell themselves and ask for at least three references!
Usually the ones who charge less up front and take a % of eventual sale/lease are the ones to go with. They work harder.
Anyway, got to move on now. Look up patent agencies on the net, E-mail for info., make them work to get you as a client.
I would not pay anymore than 1200 to 1500 dollars with no more than a 10% cut going to the patent agency.
And, lastly, 'Yes'. A company willing to manufacture your idea - get the patent before showing it to ANYONE, will pay you 'good faith' money.
Good Luck,