Patenting an invention.?

Question

For a long time I had several ideas for tools, which as far as I know are not on market, nor have been invented yet, and I believe have potential because I am finding them very helpful in my work as painter & tiler. I tried contacting patent lawyers for information, but got no replies from them. I was in touch with couple of "reputable" new invention sponsors who wanted to look at my ideas, but only if I sent them 200$, and with no promise that they would actualy finnance & market my invention, nor return my check, so I decided not to send them anything, fearing that they may just aquisition my ideas as theirs if I don`t patent them first...So what is best & safest way of getting your invention on the market?

Answer 1

You'll want to at least file the patent application before going to market. Then you can say your product is "patent pending", and the patent office will recognize you as the inventor. Then go get it manufactured and marketed.

Have a look at http://www.patentengineers.com

It's explains patents and the legal process for inventors. You might find it useful.