If you got it flaunt it. This is an introductory article I have written aimed at those of you who do not know how to patent it yourself. One hot tip, patent early, especially now when the first to file rule came into effect in the United States, and especially if your invention is in a highly competitive field. Illustration: Getty Images/Chad Baker
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Mary, This is a really good set of articles on patenting, but please do not perpetuate the idea that one can patent an “idea.” Only inventions can be patented, and among the requirements is the conception of
the invention (which might be considered an idea) + “reduction to practice,” which can be constructively accomplished by filing a properly written patent application. One need not wait to make a working prototype, just describe the invention well enough in the application that another person would learn how to “make and use” the invention. Thank you also for exposing your readers to the new “first to file” regime. James K. Poole, Reg. Patent Attorney