Crazy idea: How do I take it from concept to reality?

[MarineOne]

Tonight at my weekly herf I had a crazy idea, and quite frankly I've never seen anything like it on the market nor do I think it exists. I don't want to share it quite yet, but if one wanted to design a product for cigar care how would one go about doing it?

[CatalystOfChaos]

Depends on the product.

First, you have to present the idea to someone who can either make it for you as a prototype, or do so yourself.

Then, you'd have to pay to get the patent on it so someone else doesn't steal the idea.

[MarineOne]

I figured on needing a patent, which is why I've held off on explaining what exactly it is. I don't think the prototype would cost much at all since I can make it myself with the help of some small power tools.

Guess its time to find someone who knows about patents and IP laws .... lol.

[CatalystOfChaos]

There are agencies that handle all that stuff for you for a small fee.

The biggest thing you have to do is make sure someone else didn't patent it then sleep on it, which does happen.

[DeeDubya]

I figured on needing a patent, which is why I've held off on explaining what exactly it is. I don't think the prototype would cost much at all since I can make it myself with the help of some small power tools.

Guess its time to find someone who knows about patents and IP laws .... lol.

Your first step is a "Patent Search"". No matter what your idea is, you will be surprised at how many patents are similar. There are patent attorneys who can initiate the search and there are many rip-off businesses who claim they can take your idea and make your rich. Be careful. I suggest a patent attorney. Here is an old company that I used years ago for a loudspeaker design. Not sure if they still exit but they did a good job for me.

O-Brien & Jacobson
Patent Attorneys
1325 G. Street, Northeast
Washington, D.C. 20005

[MarineOne]

Thanks for the info .....


Actually I spent yesterday search 9 pages of patents on the USPTO site for anything related to cigars, humidors, and other accessories. The good news is I haven't found anything like it.

The bad news is I have to wait about 3 weeks for the stuff I need to make a 3D model. I ordered some green floral foam (the stuff florists use to hold flower arraignments; its fantastic for doing models) and the X-Acto knives and saw I need to do the shaping.

Then I need to download Google's Sketch application to see if I can render it in 3D on the computer.