patent search and registration help

[stigmundfreud]

We've come up with what we believe to be a unique idea for a product. Intial searches for products matching the description have proven fruitless so we think we're good to go. I've used the beta google patent search for US patents and returned nothing - so it looks good.

Where we are coming unstuck is the UK. I am very nervous about going to a search agent for fear of poaching the idea. So if anyone here can rpovide guidance it would be really welcome.

Also in order to make a good bid for a patent is there a set format for the paperwork? I have sketched the idea down with each feature with an explaination of what each does. The workings of some of the features are left a little open as I'm not an engineer so it would just be an example of what the feature would result in not how it would work.

If anyone works in this area to maybe we can talk business, I'm not going to blindly accept the first offer etc but am more likely to (foolishly?!? ) trust someone here than just via an agent search.

Thanks

Mike

[Ultraviolet]

You need to get a patent lawyer to draft the application and file with the patent office for you. Do not do it yourself unless you REALLY know what you're doing - otherwise you are likely to devalue it, or even render it worthless!

You will get a search as part of the application process - and the chance to amend the patent (within the broader claims) based on the results.

The patent agent will be able to engage a search agent if required. Everything with the patent agent (assuming they're reputable) will be confidential.

You could also use an NDA for extra protection. Also, look at patent insurance - that way you've got a stick to beat any infringers with.

In addition to patent searches, you will need to also research the market thoroughly. Anything similar in the public domain (even if its not patented) has the potential to invalidate your patent.

Cheers,

UV

[stigmundfreud]

thanks,

I've found a patent law firm that turns out is run by someone I know! I just hope I get this pulled off

[ginettag27]

? Why not search the Patent Office's site?

http://www.ipo.gov.uk/

[osteoadam]

i'm just in the middle of this process, application filed 6 weeks ago, for a low back support. its a mine field out their, but a good patent lawyer is worth every penny. the guy i used works for him self, not a huge firm and was nothing but great. based in surrey, west london if you require another quote, goes by www.patentandtrademark.co.uk .

now all i need is a high up contact in 3M or smith & Nephew to my product licensed! if any one can help

good luck

[stigmundfreud]

out of curiosity how much, or what region does it cost?

thanks

[osteoadam]

i had quotes from £2k to £5k, think in the end was about £3 inc vat, but included all the claims, etc, about 17 pages in total. its amazing what they can write about a simple mechanical device. my partner wanted to do it our selves, but having read what we now have its just not worth it even trying to do it ones self. your invention is only worth how its protected really.

[Tony 1234]

[quote=osteoadam your invention is only worth how its protected really.
[/quote]

And how much you are willing to spend to litigate against others!

Tony

[AlexB]

osteoadam said:

i had quotes from £2k to £5k, think in the end was about £3 inc vat, but included all the claims, etc, about 17 pages in total. its amazing what they can write about a simple mechanical device. my partner wanted to do it our selves, but having read what we now have its just not worth it even trying to do it ones self. your invention is only worth how its protected really.

That sounds reasonable for an initial application. It's later on, when filing foreign applications takes place, that the costs can mount - make sure you have a good idea where the invention is going (and how much it will be worth) as soon as you can - you should ideally have a pretty good idea before 1 year after your initail filing dateas that is when some potentially expensive decisions have to be made!

Alex

[osteoadam]

of course!