Transforming a lightbulb moment into a tangible invention is a thrilling journey—one often marked with challenges and questions like, “What do I do once I have an invention idea?” The pathway from innovation to patent application involves several key steps. InventHelp, a leading invention service company, can provide critical guidance and assistance throughout this process.
Refining Your Idea
Your inventive journey begins with a detailed assessment of your initial idea. Consider all aspects of your invention—its functionality, design, potential applications—and create a basic sketch or model to solidify your concept. InventHelp can guide you by providing necessary resources and services, helping you refine your idea effectively.
Market and Patent Research
Next, comprehensive market and patent research is required to examine the potential market for your invention and to ensure its novelty. InventHelp offers a patent search service, scouting through a vast collection of patented inventions to avoid potential patent conflicts.
Prototype Development
After confirming your idea’s novelty and viability, you proceed to develop a prototype—a crucial step that facilitates in evaluating your design, determining modifications, and preparing for patent submission. InventHelp helps inventors in creating professional prototypes, offering services ranging from basic models to 3D-rendered designs.
Preparing a Patent Application
Equipped with a prototype, you march towards preparing your patent application. This can be a Provisional Patent Application (PPA) that establishes an early filing date but doesn’t mature into an issued patent unless followed by a Non-Provisional Patent Application (NPA). InventHelp can assist in the preparation and filing of these patent applications.
Filing the Patent Application
Once your patent application is ready, it needs to be submitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). If a PPA has been filed, it should be followed by an NPA within 12 months to commence the official examination process.
USPTO’s Examination Process
After submission, your application is examined by a Patent Examiner at the USPTO for various legal compliances and tested against issued patents to confirm your invention’s novelty. InventHelp’s patent services can ensure you’re supported during this phase, helping respond to potential Office Actions.
Maintenance of Patent
A patent provides exclusive rights for your invention for 20 years. To maintain its validity, regular fees should be paid to the USPTO, a process in which InventHelp can guide you.
Now that you know more about the patenting process, you can see why it’s important to work with an experienced patent agency. Let InventHelp be your guide and help you every step of the way.
Conclusion
Recognizing the challenges inventors face, InventHelp offers assistance at every stage—whether it’s refining your idea, prototype development, or patent filing. With services designed to navigate the rigors of the invention process, InventHelp can help turn your dream into a patent-protected reality. Keep in mind, the path from ideation to patenting takes patience and persistence. With InventHelp by your side, you’re one leap closer to holding your patented invention.
