Inventions & Patents

Recommended Books:

• Patent It Yourself – by David Pressman
• Inventing and Patenting Sourcebook – by Richard Levy
• The Complete Idiot's Guide To Cashing In on Your Inventions – by Richard Levy​

Web sites:

• U.S. Patent and Trademark Office – Complete information on patents and the patent process.

What to remember:

• Most ripoff invention services use a three-step program to steal money. They offer a free evaluation of the inventor's product through an 800-number, take $500 or so to fund 'research,' and later request another $5,000 to $6,000 for more extensive 'market research.'
• One such company was forced to disclose that less than one percent of the ideas people submit ever make it to market.
• Turn to the local bookstore or library for legitimate advice on how to bring inventions to market.
• It's important to create a working prototype of your idea, because companies won't buy ideas from sketches.
• Your best bet is to find an invention broker to propose your idea to a company.
• Non-profit inventors clubs, which can be found in many cities, also are excellent for sharing ideas and providing encouragement.