Great idea, first project, where to start?

**Billy** · 01-26-2011 03:29 AM

Hi, I have come up with a great idea, I have searched around and cant find this idea anywhere. I have never gone through the process of creating a idea so I am posting here to get some answers before I carry the idea on. If someone could answers a few questions for me that would be great.

1. Patent:

If I buy a patent for my idea is it mine? Meaning someone cant just come along and create my project? And if it is mine will that patent be worldwide?

2. Cost of a patent:

I have searched around and have seen people in other forums saying they cost around $3000 to get, really? Seems abit much for something that isn't even created yet.

3. Prototype:

Where would I go for a prototype? The idea I have would cost around 10p to make per unit, maybe a little more but not much. I have again searched around on google etc but who do you trust? Are there any reputable companies anyone knows of?

4. Marketing the idea:

Phone, email everyone who are in that field? Whats the chances of getting a response?

So they are the four questions I have, I may have asked abit much but if you don't ask how will you ever know?

Hope someone can reply with some answers. Thanks

**Gary Barzel** · 01-27-2011 07:52 AM

A patent provides the right to exclude others from making, using, selling, offering for sale, or importing the patented invention. The patent becomes yours during the duration of your term, you have to pay renewal fees in order to keep it in force. Generally patents last for 20 years. A US patent will only protect you in the US. You can apply for an international application to help protect you in other countries as well.

The cost of obtaining a patent is expensive, there are many fees associated with a patent and from what I understand costs can run you anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000.

**muara.sipahutar** · 01-27-2011 08:57 PM

Hello Billy and Gary,

Yes, it's also high cost to generate patent here in Indonesia. If I were you Billy, I will do some trial first with the project, without too big visibility, in order to receive some responds from the market/clients.

Then, if the idea were fantastic and could adapt to the market, it can be put into patent by searching for investors. Yes, money is important for funding good ideas. Don't worry too much when splitting revenue. Even Mark Zuckerberg needed good investors and money to support his Facebook ideas (please see The Social Network movie).