How do you get a patent for an invention that is not expensive?

Question

We need an easy way to get a patent on a new invention. Any Ideas?

Answer 1

You can file a provisional patent application with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (www.uspto.gov). You can do it without a lawyer but the process can be confusing if you have no experience.  There is a good book; "Patent it yourself" by Pressman. The fee is around $100. It is important that you prepare the application with good attention to detail.  You may want to have an attorney, experienced engineer or business professional in the area of your invention review it. 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. You might also consider if you really need a patent.  Another consideration, has your idea already been patented?  Before you spend the considerable cost (typically 5 to 10 thousand $) for the full application, you should search to see what other patents already exist.  Again, you can do this yourself, but it may be difficult unless you have some experience.  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.