OT Anyone here ever patent something?, where to start? Options

[GaroldShaffer]

With all the different products we have here, I am sure someone has got a patent. Got a few ideas that I think I would like to patent. I have been reading some websites but would like to get some first hand input from someone that has done this process before.

Thanks!

[larryp]

!00,000s of dollars? No, it will cost in the millions to sue for infringement. Pretty much a minimum of 3 to get through trial, if it goes that far. Most don't, of course. These are often bet your business type lawsuits and so most settle. (Remember the Kodak instant camera technology anyone? Polaroid won nearly a billion dollars and got an injunction.)

But patents work for sole inventors as well, witness Robert Kearns and his intermittent wipers. But the estimated damages has to be worth the expense. Kearnes used contingency fee lawyers at the beginning, as did Gerald Lemelson. Both inventors made several hundred millions. Google either and have some fun.

There is no simple answer to whether or not doing this is worth it for you. The real answer involves several considerations, including your technology and whom your competitors are. Even a patent on a very simple idea can be worthwhile if it permits you to send a cease and desist letter to Sears or Home Depot etc.; they prefer not to get involved (and the indemnification from some small supplier is pretty much worthless) and so typically require their suppliers to obtain licenses immediately.

It's a rough business fellas. Which, well, I can sort of live with ... (IMG:http://www.914world.com/bbs2/html/emoticons/beer3.gif)

Cheers.