How Do You Patent An Invention Or Idea?
Do you have an idea that you’d like to patent? First, the bad news: you can’t actually patent an idea. But you can develop that idea into a workable product or device and receive a patent on your invention. It’s not easy to get a U.S. patent, but if you have an idea that you think could become a new and valuable product, a patent will protect your rights for 17 years. You can either file a provisional patent, which will give you a year to see if you can find a company interested in producing your product before you go for a regular patent, or you can apply immediately for a regular patent. Once you’ve been granted a patent, you can sell all or part interest in it to another person or company, or keep the rights and profit from the invention yourself. The process of applying for a patent is complex, and the steps below are greatly simplified. Many inventors hire a lawyer or agent to protect their rights and help them prepare the patent and deal with the US Patent and Trademark Office (U
