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Protect Your Prototype
Q: I have an invention that kills flies, mosquitoes and other pesky insects, but I don’t have a patent yet. I am looking for a manufacturing company that is willing to review my prototype under the appropriate terms and conditions of confidentiality. Do you know a good way to approach a company that may be willing to produce and market this type of invention?
A: Before you approach any vendor, the best first step is to file for a provisional patent. Obtaining this so-called “foot in the door” patent is easier and cheaper than a traditional, utility patent and “it’s the best precaution an inventor with an important idea can take,” says Robert Faber, a patent attorney at Ostrolenk, Faber, Gerb & Soffen in Manhattan.
While a provisional patent isn’t a full patent, it protects your idea for a year while you work out the kinks in the prototype. If you’re planning to file a traditional patent anyway, getting a provisional patent is not a wasted step, as much of the paperwork is similar.
Another layer of protection is a nondisclosure or confidentiality agreement, which provides recourse in the event your potential vendor spills the beans on your idea.
Photo by MSDesign.
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