How do i found out if a product is already out there?

Aug 28, 2006

I have had an idea about an invention- it's nothing flashy.

I have done a few searches on google under headings that i would use to find one and found nothing, is there a better way of finding out?

Michael

Coding Monkey · Aug 28, 2006

The long and lovely answer might be that you have to look at patent it until you actually find out whether it exists or not. Whilst that can take around 2 years and you're developing the product, you might find out that someone patented the idea 1 day before you, and therefore your only chance of survival is getting a license from the original owner and paying them a fee. It's such an optimistic area.

Aug 28, 2006

2 years!!! why so long? is there no other way of finding out if something already exists?, and the other questions is how do i get a prototype built do i go to an manufactorer of similiar products, i really have no idea how to do this

Coding Monkey · Aug 28, 2006

I have no idea why it's so long. You'd think they'd have a decent database, but a friend of mine has went through the entire process lately and it's neither cheap nor quick. And to get an idea built, you'd need a lot of confidentiality agreements in place, as if it's not patented, the moment someone else see's it, they can go ahead and patent it and lock you out. It's why on Dragons' Den (bless reality TV) they immediately lose interest if the idea isn't patented.

Astaroth · Aug 29, 2006

There is of cause the other consideration that if you cant find anyone else selling such a product online and online would be a viable channel for it then it may well be viable even if someone else is already making it (as long of cause that you dont infringe any of their patents)

Aug 30, 2006

okpatent aside can any help me work out what the first step is to getting a prototype built, where do you go?
I understand that you dont know what it is, but in all cases I would imagine you start at a point, do you go to a manufactorer, do you go to a particular type of company that will build a one off???
just a starting point would be great.

Swedish-Host · Aug 30, 2006

ebonybailey said:
I have had an idea about an invention- it's nothing flashy.

I have done a few searches on google under headings that i would use to find one and found nothing, is there a better way of finding out?

Michael

Hi

Google is an ocean! You have to use diferent key words and dont give up!
It will never take 2 years, but it could take 2 days!

FocusZenith · Aug 30, 2006

Hi Michael

I have to agree with Tom. Before you contact a manufacturer and start thinking about prototypes you need to get the legal framework in place. Go and see a solicitor that specialises in this field and get a confidentiality agreement drawn up. Then, when you approach someone to discuss prototypes, ensure you get them signed up with the agreement before you show them any plans or ideas.

I must admit I am uncertain of the technicalities of this sort of agreement but ensure that anyone who is going to see your idea is covered by the agreement. When we worked with a new invention all members of the project team who were involved with the research had to sign the agreement.

Personally, as a first step I would contact the Patent Office (http://www.patent.gov.uk/) and ask for some advice.

Good luck with your invention.

Laurance

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How do i found out if a product is already out there?

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