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[Emjay]

I know having a good idea is difficult, because the big problem is you can't share it with anyone at first. Could anyone point me in the right direction of what I should do first?

My idea uses several existing technologies but creates a new device using those technologies.  This device would be patentable right?

I know if I present my idea to a large corporation they would love to develop this, but then again how can I guarantee I get my fair share?

I would love to manufacture and develop this product myself but the biggest problem with this is capital and resourses so its really a dificult situation. In the end I would like to develop the product myself and later licence the use of my product to 3rd party companies (thats the dream anyway).

Can anyone give me some advice on how to get started, I appreciate your help.

Thanks.

[W]

What you need is a patent (utility). You may patent the implementation, not the idea. Your implementation must be new, unique, and non-obvious. Additionally, you must deal with any prior art.

To get one of these patents, you can either 1.) file it yourself (read USPTO documents), or 2.) get a patent attorney to do it all for you. Number 2 gets preferential treatment, because time and experience are working against you.

Note that if/when a patent issues, you effectively have a deadlock on your invention. This is when you begin making your rounds to various companies.

-W

[Emjay]

Thanks for the reply W.

So I guess my real question was, (and this is an example) if I were to take a pair of sunglasses a gps system, and small lcd screens and make a gps sunglass unit could I patent it and protect my rights?

(haha thats not a bad idea btw)

[W]

Yes. But only if someone else has not already created such a system.

[W]

Oh, and as a reminder (just in case anyone forgets): do not disclose your invention to these forums until you have either filed for a patent or talked with an attorney.

-W

[Emjay]

Thanks again W, This forum could prove very usefull.

[JimIvey]

I'll just weigh in a little late here, W is right -- as long as your combination of known things is new and non-obvious, you should get a patent.

One part of your post not addressed yet is how to approach the potential interested parties -- either major manufacturers or investors to help you manufacture the product.  Don't tell anyone about your idea before you file your patent application without an NDA (non-disclosure agreement).  Well, attorneys are always under NDA, so it's not necessary for them.  Most manufacturers and investors won't sign them, so you have a bit of a conundrum -- it's difficult to get a good patent application without other people's money and it's difficult to get other people's money without a good patent application.  

I hope that's more helpful than it sounds.