If I have an invention. What is the best way to have it developed?

Question

I don't trust companies like the ones promising to help you develop your invention. I have a great idea and need it developed and manufactured. What is the best way to go about this?

Answer 1

Try and make a prototype of your own.

Then get rights to Patent it so that no one can copy your idea, and take it on something like Dragons Den. :D

Answer 2

There is really only one way to go. Build a prototype and get a proper set of drawings made that conform to ANSI standards (this is VERY IMPORTANT). Find a manufacturing company to manufacture it, and sell it yourself. File a provisional patent just before you make the first sale. You will then be a "taillight industry", that is all that the competitors will see is your tail lights. That way, you won't need to sue anybody for patent infringement. This would be a waste of money even if you could afford it.

You may need to find funding for this, if so go to one of the so called "boutiques".

Obviously you need to do a market study before doing any of this, there is no point in building it if it will not sell.