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.