Each year, on average, the US Patent and Trademark Office receives more than half a million patent applications. Approximately half of them receive patents.
There are a lot of factors that can influence their decision on whether you will be granted the patent or not.
However, according to experts, having a prototype can significantly increase your chances of getting your patent approved. That doesn’t exclude those without a prototype, but a prototype can go a long way in getting the patent on your name.
How to get your prototype built?
1. Start with a concept sketch
One of the first things to do is to put your idea on paper or create a digital drawing of your prototype. Whatever works for you best, just get it out there and give your vision a face, dimensions, features, and anything that have been sitting on in your mind.
It won’t be perfect, it will need a lot of refining, but it is the first step towards something unique.
2. Create a virtual prototype
To this end, most engineers and product designers use AutoCad. It is a program that enables them to create both 2D and 3D renderings. If you are not skillful enough to transform your 2D drawings into a 3D sketch, you can always hire someone to assist you with your 3D sketch.
3. Build a physical prototype
Building a physical product based on your sketches and notes is the most challenging step. Not many people decide to go for a DIY approach as they don’t have the right machines, nor the necessary know-how.
However, a rapid prototyping company such as 3erp is specialized in building other people’s prototypes. They have the technology, the know-how, and the experience that spreads across many years.
The final prototype might take several iterations, their team might also suggest some necessary changes, but at the end of the day, your prototype will see the light of the day.
4. Find a manufacturer
Having a prototype sets you on the fast track of getting your patent. However, there is a way to further increase your chances of winning that patent. That additional step is finding a manufacturer for your product.
If you are serious about monetizing your idea then finding someone to produce it at a mass scale at a cost that is low enough so that you can turn a profit is the final step.
It goes without saying that, it will be very difficult for the US Patent and Trademark Office not to award you a patent. We assume you got all the papers in order.
To Conclude
Don’t let your idea live only in your head. Let it in the real world and see if it is truly the next big thing. The simple truth is that overthinking won’t get you anywhere and will only deter you from taking any action.
And if you play it smart, your prototype won’t cost you as much as you think. Nowadays, thanks to technology such as 3d printing and CNC machining, creating a prototype is fairly fast and affordable. That makes the fear of losing money obsolete.
On the other hand, if it truly is as amazing as you think, it can help you reach new heights.
