Protecting Your Idea

[snook]

I've just come up with (what I think is) a really good idea that could increase public safety.  I want to get it out there so it can be put into operation (assuming it actually makes sense, not just seems to, to me), but I also would like some remuneration.  Question: How can I protect my idea and make sure that, if it's taken up, I can benefit from it as well?  I'm not in a position to just 'call my solicitor' and get him to deal with it.  I also know it might be useful to write it all down, with sketches, etc., and post it to myself, then keep it, unopened... but not sure how much actual legal protection that would provide.  Any sensible ideas, anyone??

[Famous5]

Assuming you are in the UK, try The Patent Office at www.patent.gov.uk and they will give you all the advice you need. There's also an ad on TV at the moment which gives an 0800 phone number [the ad asks the question 'who invented the vacuum cleaner?' so they obviously haven't heard of AB!]

[snook]

Thanks for that, famous5! I've just e-mailed the patent office and it'll be interesting to see if they can suggest something.

[oligopoly]

just to be aware - the company from that advert on tv was on watchdog for alleged scamming and fraud. jeez i hope i cant get sued for this post :p

[oligopoly]

just to be aware - the company from that advert on tv was on watchdog for alleged scamming and fraud. jeez i hope i cant get sued for this post :p

[tigga]

There is an independant company that deals with this type of thing, (im pretty sure its not the one getting done) have a search for International Technology Exchange and see what you make of them, even if just for some useful tips.

[snook]

Thanks for that, back2tigga, I've had a quick look.  Seems to be a scam company, as evidenced by all the stuff here: http://inventors.ca/ite.questions/

I've already emailed the Patent Office, so I think I'll wait and see what their advice is, but I appreciate your suggestion all the same.

[tigga]

Trust !. Oh well at least we identified the one to stay away from !.