1/2/2008 5:50 PM
Bill Demers wrote:
Reply to this 1/22/2007 2:36 AM At the risk of sounding silly. I am an inventor that is disabled and have a very small income. I have contacted invention help companies and the fees are way too high. How can I get from inventing to market on a very limited income? Reply to this
1/2/2008 5:53 PM
Victor the Inventor Reply wrote:
1/22/2007 12:51 PM This is not a silly question! This is one of the most important areas of inventing. (How can I get from inventing to market on a very limited income?) You have figured out the first hurdle. Do not rely on someone else to create and market your invention. Especially the idea/invention companies! They will just take what little money you have left and your incentive to create your product. First you have to build your product. (A prototype. Remember an idea is not an invention!) Then protect it! If you can't afford to pay for Non-Provisional Patent Protection... There is a simpler way to protect yourself. It is called a Provisional Patent. This establishes a filing date and only costs around $100.00 But you must file for a non-provisional patent within 1 year. If you have a limited income, contact companies with the same type products. Have them sign a confidentiality agreement. When you agree upon terms, have them pay for the non-provisional costs to Fully Patent your product. Remember you must file for the non-provisional patent within year to fully protect yourself. So you must get started right away after you file. Keep us informed and keep asking questions! I have invented many, many products without the help from anyone, no marketing degree and a very limited income.. So don't give up...Victor Anymore questions....Ask the inventor here on inventorsfreehelp.com NO SCAMS just honest free information! Reply to this
1/2/2008 5:56 PM
Jody wrote:
1/29/2007 7:16 PM Where can I find information (books, websites, etc) on creating a prototype? My idea involves plastic food containers but I don't know where to start. Reply to this
1/2/2008 5:59 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
1/29/2007 10:53 PM Jody, The best place to start is The Thomas Register. Go online to: www.thomasnet.com ...I call this The Inventors Bible... You can find any product or manufacturer of a product to use as a prototype or contact manufacturers that can make your product for you. Here's a tip when looking under your product description for a manufacturer: Let's say Plastics pick the one that has an 800 # then your call is free. If you have questions ask the representative of that company. Everyone will be helpful. And here's a link for more help on how to Create a Product Prototype... www.entrepreneur.com/startingabusiness/inventing/inventionscolumnisttamaramonosoff/article80678.html Just copy and paste in your browser. Let's us know if this is helpful or you need more info. All info is free! Just Ask! Thanks Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:00 PM
Jody wrote:
1/30/2007 10:00 PM That is very helpful! Thanks so much. I'll be in touch as more questions come to mind. Thank you for providing this service. Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:02 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
1/30/2007 10:58 PM Victortheinventor wrote: Jody I just had a plastic container Trademarked it was called a "THIRST-AID KIT" I can give you the name of that manufacturer. They are in the U.S. they may already have a container that may fit your needs..Let me know if you want that information. The worst thing that can happen to an inventor is to be taken by one of those idea/invention companies... Please avoid them!!! inventorsfreehelp.com Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:03 PM
Charles wrote:
4/3/2007 8:38 AM I have over 60 concepts for products. They are primarily: Toys, Tools, and personal security devices. Over the last 5 years I have seen 7 of my concepts come out on the market. I would be interested in doing a joint venture with someone who has experience in putting products on the market. I know my product ideas are good, innovative, and marketable due to the same products having been marketed before I could get them out. My apprehension in actually developing them comes from my belief that a patent is only as good as your ability to litigate it. The big money has the advantage, and I just haven't wanted put time and money into something that someone will steal from me anyway. If anyone is interested in talking to me about a joint venture. (My Ideas and Time....Your expertise and money) Call me @ (330)431-5905,or E-mail me at the following: bzzwzz@yahoo.com Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:04 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
4/3/2007 11:20 AM A Patent can sometimes be un-important. As you have noticed, your ideas came to market by other people before you acted on your idea. You lost valuable time. I have created and put on the market several toys and games without ever having a patent. I came up with a good name for my products and trademarked them. Then went straight to market. Some ideas require patents, some don't. For example: A hamburger cannot have a patent. They just trademark the name of their company. If money is a factor and you need a patent. File for the Provisional Patent. Cost around $100. and will protect you for one year till you can get financial backing to proceed to a non-provisional patent. Which you must do within a year. Good Luck and hope to see one of your ideas on the market within the year! Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:07 PM
Edwin De La Cruz wrote:
5/14/2007 11:49 AM Vincent, thank you for all the information that was published in your latest book "Patent, Protect, Produce and Profit From Your Ideas and Inventions Yourself!". I thought it was appropriate and the information is very useful.
Question: My idea and innovation has to do with solids to liquid chemistry. I conducted a novel patent search and it looks promising. My main concern are the laboratories and finding useful formulation chemists that are trust worthy to assist preparing the ingredients for a prototype lab sample. Are there any accreditation society for consumers, such as myself?
2nd Question: In preparing to write my patent, I think it will be smart and extremely helpful against future possible infringement to review court and judicial opinions in regards to chemical liquids. What the books are saying can be true in regards to preparing a broad claim strategy. What about the judges that has reviewed court cases. What is their point-of-view and legally binding opinions for inventors to defend themselves from infringement and/or big corporations that are able to steal the idea or product. This judicial opinions aare information to make a super strong patent. Any recommendations in how to find these sources of information? Thanks Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:13 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
Reply to this 5/14/2007 4:28 PM Thank you for your response about my book. 1). I can give you some hands on information. When I developed "SLIM PATCH" I found a pharmaceutical company that was willing to work with me. I had them sign a waiver (Non Disclosure Document) not to use or discuss my product with anyone outside their company. You might try that first. If they are able to create your product for you, then you have a product plus you have a manufacturer. Look in the Thomas directory for a pharmaceutical company close to you. Call them and discuss your situation. www.thomasnet.com 2). Normally, patents do not include court and judicial opinions in regards to chemical liquids. Your product is complicated. My advice is to seek out and talk to a patent attorney. Most do not charge a consultation fee and afterwards you may understand your situation better. As you know I always try to inform inventors to DO IT YOURSELF! But when it comes to patents you will need guidance and claims are very crucial to any patent and must be written accordingly. Seek out a patent attorney that specifically handles chemical patents. Please keep me informed and if this doesn't help put you in the right direction or answer your question appropriately.. I will do more research for you... Victor Reply to this
1/2/2009 1:04 PM
Israel wrote:
You brought up a Non Disclosure Document is there a standard form that may be used or do you simply right up a general contract? I'm finding myself in the same situation. I have no prototype but its a simple plastic mold. I will contact several local molding companies. Does anyone have any additional general advice? I have an idea as stated its very simple in design. Finding the manufacturer isn't a problem. Once chosen I will more than likely get the patent pending for a year. I understand I will need to invest money but if I solely use a single manufacturer for my product what can be negotiated in terms of price? Is there a general rule of thumb? Do you pay up front? Could I partner up and simply get a percentage of whats sold. Is that advisable? I know its a lot of questions sorry I just want to know what to expect thanks in advance. Reply to this
1/4/2009 11:50 PM
Victor Vic-Vincent wrote:
You can typically find a general non-disclosure or confidentiality agreement anywhere online that sells law documents.. Look for a free one over the internet and print it out. Then change it up to suit your needs... Negotiation in terms of price, can be by the number you will have made, the type of product used, cheaper or more expensive metal or plastic. If not the price then negotiate free pieces instead of 100 for $100.00 Negotiate 120 for $100.00 It's always better to go on your own... only partner up as a last resort. Good luck keep us informed of your progress......... Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:14 PM
Edwin De La Cruz wrote:
5/15/2007 4:34 AM Victor, Thank You. Glad we have smart and honest guys like you in our side. Good Luck with the patch Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:17 PM
Ken wrote:
Reply to this 5/27/2007 9:06 AM Thanks Vencent, I put my info in the mail to USPTO. and the local news paper is going to do a story on my (jet digger) this coming week. I hope it generates some interest from some investors. Thanks for your help. Ken Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:22 PM
Fred Ludovici wrote:
6/6/2007 9:29 AM Hi,my invention will have to do with a t.v. spot, like a thirty second one, how do you find a company who does this? Fred ludovici Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:23 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
6/7/2007 12:12 PM If you talking about creating a 30 second commerical> Look in your yellow pages for local T.V. stations. They can create commercials for you on a local level, cheaper. Also I have found local colleges to have T.V.,Producer and News Caster programs and some of the colleges even have their own T.V. studios. Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:27 PM
Ken wrote:
7/30/2007 9:38 AM I have been trying to get the local newspaper to come out to do an article on my product but it is not happening we set times and no one shows up is there another avenue I can take? My product takes the work out of digging and the reporters have never dug in there life and don't see the big deal. Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:28 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
7/30/2007 11:15 Yeah, that is so disappointing. Did you talk to a specific reporter? If so give him/her a call back in a week and ask him/her if something came up or if there is some reason they changed thier mind on doing a story.. Or would it be best suited to contact the living or business section... If that writer has become disinterested... If you call another writer tell them how the American Inventor show is getting a lot of attention and you have an invention here locally that locals think qualifies. Also tell them it has a patent or patent pending.. That is important... If this doesn't work... Try the same thing with a paper within a 50 mile distance of your home. Maybe you work in a different city... Or your family lives in a different city.. Try those newspapers....Write me again, if you still can't get media attention. I have more ideas. Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:29 PM
Lenny wrote:
9/28/2007 11:35 PM Hello. I have in my possession the paperwork and prototypes of a patented invention. The invention belonged to my father who is deceased. He didn't care to leave it to anyone or have it looked after. I took it upon myself to salvage things. The invention has recieved some press, shows, awards..etc. Fake offers that didn't get over because of a good lawyer at the time. Its existed for some years now with no real offer to buy or licence. I grew up knowing about and experiencing the history of this invention. I have been in touch with his patent lawyers and the patent office. The bottom line is that I would have to write a permission letter for me to take over the patent, fill out a form and pay a small fee. I doubt that this might sell. Its never been lucky except for con artists and lots of people who "love" it..but who do not or cannot dp anything more. It would be a life investment for me to seek a buyer or a licensee. How do I donate this invention patent to a reputable company. Do I need to own it?. I don't want to be stuck with this thing in my name and no one to pick it up. I can't keep the prototypes in my home for too long for need of space. What would you do in my shoes?. Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:33 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
9/29/2007 11:17 AM Victor N. Vic-Vincent wrote: Since you say the invention is patented. You can post it on this message board under "Post Your Invention Here" .. seeking a client who could take it off your hands for a percentage deal... It seems you do not want to pursue this, due to the cost.. So, until you get an interested client wait until then to transfer it into your name... If you want to donate it. Check some of your local organizations such as your local Junior Achievement. They deal in young entrepreneurs.. It's hard to suggest someone without knowing what the invention is.. So post it under "Post Your Invention Here" and maybe then I or some of our readers can help you with suggestions... Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:34 PM
Karena Harrison wrote:
11/17/2007 11:30 AM I have a new electrical beauty supply product being built by an engineer, how do I go about finding companies in that field to partner with my product? Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:35 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
11/17/2007 11:31 AM Karena, When I am searching for partners in a certain field.. I look in the THOMAS REGISTER... it lists all types of companies that will suit your needs. Heres a link: http://www.thomasnet.com Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:36 PM
Charlotte wrote:
12/2/2007 9:53 PM I ordered your "The Inventors Guidebook" from the Barnes& Noble Bookseller store in Shelby Township, MI. Ok, three of them. One for me and two for friends with ideas. I highly recommend your book and I will continue to do so. I made a prototype of my invention, because it was easier than drawing it. Honestly, I can't draw to save my life lol. Do I have it analyzed by a third party, before I speak to a patent lawyer or after? I spoke with a patent lawyer last week. He said not to have a third party involved until after the patent. Do I have to have a design drawn up, or can I just take black and white photos of my prototype and use them? Confusion is setting in now. I done research on a listing on patent lawyers and patent prices. How do I find out which lawyer is for me? At this time, I'm unemployed with very little money. Is there such thing, as a decent priced lawyer? Warning-This question is not intended to discriminate anyone in anyway!!! Thank you. Mr. Vic-Vincent please give me your advice, at your earliest convenience, it's very important to me. Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks for your guidance. Reply to this
1/2/2008 6:41 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
12/6/2007 12:35 PM Victor the Inventor wrote: Charlotte, A prototype of your invention is the first step.. Great Job.. But unfortunately you will still need drawings whether it’s a design or utility patent... You say you can not draw. No problem! Look in the phone book for a draft person or engineer... They can do the drawings for you under the patent rules.. You may even want to bring the subject up at a local university or college.. Where they teach patent drafting... This will save you money... Talk to the teacher who can supervise a student..(The black and white photos can be used but do not offer enough protection unless you are just filing a design patent but I would still make drawings) and if this still out of reach.. Talk with an attorney (No such thing as a decent priced lawyer! Sorry. LOL) about filing a provisional patent (Look into this). Cost is cheaper and gives you a year to find venture capital and file for a non-provisional patent. Keep me informed, keep asking questions and thank you for the comments on my book. It made my day.. Victor Reply to this
7/11/2008 8:47 PM
Rick wrote:
05/10/2008 06:52 PM I have a good idea and do not really know where to start and do not have the monetary resources. It would be for the construction industry as well as the everyday home owner or do it yourselfer. I really do not believe there is anything else anywhere like it and if implemented should make a huge change in this everyday product! I have my drawings. And a description of exactly how this product would work and have mailed those drawings and explanations to myself in a certified sealed envelope to my self for proof of my idea. Where and how can I get started and profit from this idea?? Rick Reply to this
7/11/2008 9:34 PM
Johnathan wrote:
Hello Victor. I have contacted a few university to help me with designing my idea. I have gotten responds and look to schedule appointments with these contacts. I wanted to know if I should have them sign a confidentiality agreement before talking with them. Johnathan Reply to this
7/11/2008 9:36 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
It never hurts.. At least try to get someone in a position of authority at the college to sign it.. … But actually it probably isn't necessary because in a way these teachers and students will be working for you. I never had anyone at a college sign one... I wouldn't think the teacher or students would have a problem with signing one, though.... You have to remember… They are students.. They will talk with their friends and their friends will talk with their friends.. So even a confidentiality agreement can't stop that... But always try to protect yourself as much as you can.. It would look better if you ever had to defend yourself and your invention in a court of law … Reply to this
10/5/2008 5:15 PM
Charlotte wrote:
It it true that people can get grants for their inventions? If so I need to know how? I have some ideas, but no money to fall back on. How do I get started? Reply to this
10/5/2008 5:18 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
Charlotte: It's a coincidence you ask about this...another inventor just told me about a grant program in the medical field that he was applying for... I do know there are a lot of local programs you can check into such as your power companies... But you can also contact the SBA (small business association) they can send you in the right direction. The government offers grants but because of the long tedious process I know of no one who has ever received one... You can also call the USPTO 800-786-9199 or 571-272-1000 for assistance from a Customer Service Representatives. Reply to this
10/5/2008 5:20 PM
Patricia wrote:
I have an idea for a existing product to change or create a new design. Such as a calendar with different photos than the ones that I normally see. Photos that will appeal to certain groups of people. How do I go about approaching a company with my ideas and getting them to use them and I get paid if the idea is accepted and how to keep the company from stealing my ideas? Also my husband has a drawing for a product but he doesn't have a prototype and doesn't know anyone to make it, and he doesn't have a patient. How do you find a manufacture who won't steal his idea but will work with him and give him his fair share if the product is accepted? I hope you can answer my questions and we can get our ideas to become a reality. Thank you for your help and any information. Sincerely,Patricia Reply to this
10/5/2008 5:22 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
Patricia, Unless you know someone within a company that specializes in your idea... Your chance is almost 0... Not 0 but almost 0... First of all; These companies pay people from 9-5 to come up with ideas...Second.. There is nothing to keep them from stealing your idea and you get nothing... You have nothing but an idea... Sorry.. But you can use your computer with a calendar program...import your pictures and create your own calendars. Then sell them in stores... and keep the profit yourself. ..No patents needed.. Your work is copyrighted.. Just make sure the pictures you are using are your own or are copyright free.. If your calendars become popular, Calendar Companies will seek you out to make a deal... As for your husband.. He has the same dilemma... Really you two need a reality check.. No one is going to give you something for nothing... You have to create it, protect it, market it and sell it!!!.. No one is going to look at a piece of paper... They want to see the working product.. He must produce a prototype.. I don't understand? He doesn't know anyone to make it? He must make it... If he needs parts or molds.. He must seek out these manufacturers and get them to make specific parts and then he assembles them, thus creating his product... Then when he files for a provisional patent.. He has a year to approach companies with his prototype.. or he may realize, he has a winner and produce them and sell them himself.. Have him look in the Thomas Register for parts and manufacturers...www.thomasnet.com/">http://www.thomasnet.com/">www.thomasnet.com/ This advice may have seemed harsh.. But there is no easy way… If there was; Every one on this message board would be millionaires…LOL Please come back with more questions specific to your invention or idea… and I will help you through it.. (INVENT!) But remember do not tell me or anyone about your idea; Till you have created and protected it.. Reply to this
10/7/2008 11:54 AM
Suzzanne wrote:
I just wanted to say thanks for your very informative website. I learned allot and appreciate someone like you looking out for the newcomers to the field. I will continue to check your website for udates and will be buying your book as I also have a mind of ideas and books to write. Thanks again. Keep up the good work. Bless you Reply to this
10/7/2008 12:44 PM
Victor the Inventor wrote:
Thank you, Suzzanne and good luck in your endeavors. Keep us updated and come back when you have questions... Victor Reply to this
