How do I patent something, and what would qualify me to be able to patent it?

Question

I have an idea and i want to patent it.

Answer 1

the US patent office. Google it.

it must be an original idea, they will approve it or not.

Answer 2

The first thing you should do is document your idea (ie. write it down). And by write it down, I don’t mean a sentence or two. Sure, that is fine at 2:00 in morning when the light bulb goes on. But, as soon as reasonably possible you need to write something called a patent disclosure. It doesn’t need to be a novel, but take some time to think through some of the details, including how your device is made. And even if you can’t draw more than stick figures, make a few sketches. Ideally, this is done in a bound notebook with pre-number pages which are available in any office supply or stationary store. The written description should enable someone with expertise in the field, to make and use your product. Every time you work on your device, note it in your notebook, with dates. Update your notebook with new entries relating to any new developments, analyses, tests, results and descriptions of prototypes. Have at least one independent party witness your notebook entries with their signature and date.

Before you spend the considerable cost (typically 5 to 10 thousand $) for a patent application by an attorney, you should search to see what other patents already exist. You can do some searching yourself for free at the USPTO search site: http://www.uspto.gov/patft/index.html

If you find searching difficult or confusing, you can pay a patent attorney or agent to conduct a search, but that may cost several hundred to a few thousand depending on the area of your invention.

When you are ready to file a patent application, you may want to file a provisional patent application with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (www.uspto.gov). The provisional application fee is only around $100. The provisional application will give you 1 year before you need to file a full application. So, it doesn't replace the application, just delays the expense of a full application. It is important that you prepare the application in the proper way and with good attention to detail. There is a good book; "Patent it yourself" by Pressman.