Looking for some statistics/data

Re: Looking for some statistics/data

bill Crommett in seneca

>Remember that a patent is only worth the money you are able to spend defending it.

Re: Looking for some statistics/data

Keith Tompkins

>David, I hold several patents, I'm afraid it will cost more that you expect to patent the idea. AND if someone wants to copy your idea, they will....I have had it happen to me; I could not afford the attorney's fees to defend my patents.

It may be better to submit the idea to a company and collect royalties if they accept it. Let them worry about the legalities.

Several companies also market center finders, you may have to analyze what's out there, (patent search), and decide if your product is patentable. good luck with it!

Re: Looking for some statistics/data

Duane C.Leach

>David Watch out for all the junk email, letters, and phone calls. Once they find out you have a new paten or are applying for one the rats seem to come out of the woodwork. They offer to put your new mouse trap in the market place where milions can be made. All you have to do is send them a few thousand dollars to get it started.

My best advice. Do your home work well. Document everything, Trust only those people and companies with a good and honest track record.

Good luck

Duane

Re: Looking for some statistics/data

Rick Allen

>The AAW clains 10,000 members. I suspect the nmber is about twice that.

I have no idea of the number of general woodworkers.

Good luck with your project.

Re: Looking for some statistics/data

Arch

>David, some observations that you already know and that don't answer your request for statistical data:

One important statistic might be the worthwhile (as in money, not ego) patents to total patents issued ratio.

A patent is often a hunting license for suits with deep pockets to save time and money by infringing.

I've seen a successful patent convert a friend. into being an full time watchdog. Miserable and bitter, he or his lawyer met every boatfull of knockoffs from China.

Forgetting ethics, could you falsely label a product 'Patent applied for' or 'Patented' or is that illegal? :)

If the projected sales of even a unique product that's patented with a long list of claims don't meet the profit plans of a manufacturer, they usually won't be interested.

If a product used by craftsmen is simple, it will be copied for personal use by many. If complex, cost can be a limiting factor.

Forgetting all the naysaying, I've known a few successful and happy holders of important patents. The Coulter counter and pop up toaster among them. If you go for it, I wish you every success and I might even buy your centering jig...if the price is right.:)

All best, Arch

Re: Looking for some statistics/data *LINK*

Ken from SW WI

>If you know you have an original idea, and would not be infringing on an existing patent, the best thing you could do is try and produce it yourself.

Start small and build production up as the item gains popularity. When/if it does, a company like Incra will have a lot more interest.

Patents can be a huge waste of time and a grievance because they really don't protect your idea.

Here's some interesting reading and food for thought:


Patent Avoidance Library

Re: Looking for some statistics/data

TomW in SouthJersey

>You've received a lot of good advice. The only thing I can add is that it will probably cost more than you think to get the initial patent.

Also, there is an excellent book called "Patent It Yourself" its readily available in your library. I'm not suggesting you patent it yourself. But the information in the book is extremely valuable. I lived with the book and used it to weigh all the information I received while going through the patent process. I believe it was through Nova Press. BTW, I never completed the patent process. The appeals became too costly after I had already spent over $5,000 with a reputable patent attorney.

Good luck with whichever route you take. I always root for the small guy to make it.