What's the best way to patent something you've built?

Question

What's the best way to patent something you've built?

Answer 1

First, do an online patent search to see if your invention has been invented before by someone else. If it has been, it's not patentable.

http://www.google.com/patents

http://www.uspto.gov/main/profiles/acadr...

If it hasn't been, you need to file for a patent on your invention. See a patent attorney for advice on how to do that.

Answer 2

You can file what is called a provisional patent.  They are typically very vague and only cost 100$.  They are purposely vague so that you can cover the scope of the invention and any other variations and possibilities that may come along.  A provisional patent is only good for a year and is served as a place holder in the patent office.  The united states uses a first to file system so even if you have an idea and prototype before someone else and they patent first you are out of luck.  A provisional patent allows you to shop the idea around to businesses with out fear of your idea being stolen and also gives you time to file a non-provisional patent.  Provisional patents are what give your inventions a "Patent Pending" status.  Otherwise,  it is extremely difficult to write your own non-provisional patent and I suggest recruiting services from  a patent lawyer.

EDIT:

Patents can cost upwards of $12000 so be sure it is a profitable venture.