I have an idea for an invention. I am going to start down the design/prototyping path, but I have no idea what the patent process looks like or how to get something manufactured and sold once I know it works. What are some good resources to learn about this sort of thing?
The patent process can be grueling, but don't be discouraged. Even if you think you've found a prior art, don't be discouraged. Improvements upon existing patents are patentable.
Just be sure to document all of your work. And do try to build a prototype and document that, too. As for the actual filing of the patent -- there are awful ways to do it, and there are brilliant ways to do it. So, finding a good attorney is key, and you'll have to ask around.
My personal experience was on closer to the "awful" side of the spectrum, wasting about $20K on an attorney that didn't have a grasp/experience on the type of intellectual property (IP) I invented.
http://www.uspto.gov/patents/process/index.jsp
The patent process can be grueling, but don't be discouraged. Even if you think you've found a prior art, don't be discouraged. Improvements upon existing patents are patentable.
Just be sure to document all of your work. And do try to build a prototype and document that, too. As for the actual filing of the patent -- there are awful ways to do it, and there are brilliant ways to do it. So, finding a good attorney is key, and you'll have to ask around.
My personal experience was on closer to the "awful" side of the spectrum, wasting about $20K on an attorney that didn't have a grasp/experience on the type of intellectual property (IP) I invented.
Best of luck!