Inventions

[MarkyP05]

If i had an new 'invention' that i thought would make tracks in the world how would i go about doing something about it?

[joko]

get the patent for your design so no-one can steal it first. you must check that someone else hasn't already had this idea already otherwise you will have to make your model very different from theirs. if existing designs are very similar to yours then i am afraid theres nothing you can do.

create a working prototype and approach relevent companies with the prototype.

try to create a busines persona or ltd company, so the companies don't take you for a ride - which often happens.

alas you cannot patent ideas only designs, so make sure you have a working model, otherwise they will just nick the idea and get their own technos to knock up the prototype and cut you out.

you may need to hire engineers, electricians or whatever to help with the actual construction, if you are not skilled in that area. you must get them to sign an agreement - either agreeing the actual components are theirs but the idea is yours - or they could go off and repeat what they made for you and be your competition. some people deal them in as partners.

good luck

[oakleydoaky]

i suppose one thing you could do to ensure that you can prove that you invented it in the future is do what some people do to copywrite things.

prepare your description and plans. then put in an envelope and tape it up. go to the post office and send it by recorded delivery to yourself. after putting the address label over the seal of the envelope. (back to front in effect) when it arrives, sign for it but do not open it!

you have absolute proof that you invented it on a date if you have done it in such a way that it cannot be accessed without breaking the seal

it's not a patent but it is evidence if some big company steals your idea. they probably wouldnt want the tabloids to know they are thieves

[joko]

don't post it to yourself - post it to your solicitor - as these things can be faked by a PO worker or even by someone clever with photoshop...