If you're asking, “How do I get an invention made?” understand that it takes a lot of time and effort. You should conduct sufficient research to make sure other people will be interested in your invention. Obtaining a patent provides valuable rights for you as well.

How to Make Your Invention a Reality

When you have a patent in the works, it's a good time to make a working model of your invention. You don't have to go through an expensive, extensive process. You can make this first version yourself.

Your prototype is a model of your creation that puts all of your specifications into practice. It helps demonstrate your invention when you present it to others.

Some general rules that apply to prototype creation include the following:

  • Start with a drawing. Before you create a prototype, sketch out your ideas.
  • Create a mockup out of material that allows you to make a 3-D model.
  • Next, create a full-working model. Consult with books or kits that help with prototype creation. If your prototype will cost too much or has too many obstacles to create it, look into using a computer-animated prototype.
  • Remember that you don't have to use the same materials to make your prototype as you would your actual invention unless those materials are absolutely essential. Also, if you can't make a prototype yourself, you might want to hire a company to do it for you. Keep the cost in mind as this may be pricey.

Once you have a patent and prototype, you're ready for the next step, which is making a presentation of your invention. You'll present to potential buyers and manufacturers.

Tips on presentations include the following:

  • Make your presentation very professional, no matter how you create it. It's up to you if you want to use video, PowerPoint, or a presentation board.
  • Include a lot of information in visual form, such as images and diagrams. Cover your product's specifications, its uses, and benefits.
  • Consider hiring a graphic designer who can put together an eye-catching presentation for you. You can encourage more interest with appealing visuals.
  • Practice speaking. Great images and diagrams aren't enough; you also need to be a good public speaker. Instead of memorizing notecards, have general ideas to address. Think about common questions your audience may have so that you're prepared with answers.

Going Public: Your Options

Look for local manufacturers that make products similar to yours, and ask them to produce your invention. Starting with an introductory letter is helpful. Explain who you are and how you'd like to work with them.

When you hear from a manufacturer, be prepared to present to them in person. Leave them with your information and a copy of your presentation. They'll want to review it before making a decision.

In your presentation, emphasize not only how your invention helps people but also how it can make the manufacturer money. They run a business, and they want to know they'll receive benefits, too.

Once you partner with a manufacturer, you're ready to mass-produce it. The company will likely start with small batches. If successful, then you'll move into producing hundreds or thousands of units.

After you've obtained a patent, designed a prototype, found a manufacturer, and produced your product, it's time to advertise.

Meet with local store managers and business owners to discuss selling with them. Show your presentation and detail why partnering with you is great for their business. When you're ready to create advertisements, hire a graphic designer to create impressive pictures and videos.

Look into various advertising outlets, such as the following:

  • Television stations
  • Newspapers
  • Local radio stations

You'll pay a fee to advertise through these channels.

Ask your friends and family to spread the word. People who believe in you can help get the word out about your invention.

Other things you can do to publicize yourself include the following:

  • Going to local and semi-local entrepreneurial conferences
  • Holding information sessions
  • Going to business fairs
  • Advertising in booths at local conventions

Making a new invention involves a lot of hard work. If you've invented something that you want to present to the world, take the right steps to protect your rights before going public.

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