How to Make Your Product Idea Materialize
Coming up with an idea for a product can start as simply as having a random thought. If you believe your product idea is unique and useful, getting the product transitioned from concept to completion involves a series of steps to help materialize the idea itself. Making sure you are thorough in your idea and description of the product sets the stage for getting a prototype crafted to help showcase what your product is.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Finalize your vision and written description of the product. Detail the product extensively. Describe what material the product is made of, how the product works from a technical standpoint, the weight and size of the product, and the general usage options for the product.
-
2
Sketch out a drawing of your product, using your written description as a guideline. Use software to assist with getting the dimensions and details of the product just right. Save all files and store a copy of all computer files in a remote location, such as in a safe.
-
-
3
Apply for a patent on your product idea. Fill out the patent registration paperwork and include copies of your written product description and overview, along with all drawing and sketches of your product. You must complete this step and receive verification of your application's receipt by the United States Patent Office before having a prototype created.
-
4
Craft a prototype yourself using materials you can safely work with to get a rough product sample created. Use materials which are easy to work with, even if they are not part of the final product. For example, if you are creating a prototype for a metal cage with an installed motorized fan, craft a small metal cage out of chicken wire and duct tape on a small, handheld fan to represent the idea and concept of the product.
-
5
Contact industrial designers or industrial design schools located close to you. Ask if the designer or school works on prototypes. Professional industrial designer will charge for services. You can request free services of students by approaching the career counselor at an industrial design or technical trade school. Alternate places to seek help in crafting an operational prototype include auto mechanic shops, welding companies, sheet metal businesses or electronic repair shops.
-
6
Provide copies of your product sketch, description and overview to the person or people selected to build the prototype. Stay in contact with the person and be available to anser any questions. Check on the progress of the prototype throughout the process; don't wait until the final product is delivered to you. Use the prototype, along with all relevant business plans and marketing material, to sell or showcase your product.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Submit your application for a patent early on in the process as delays in processing can run long.
Do not share your product idea or data until you have secured a patent or have begun the process of registering your idea with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Goodshoot/Goodshoot/Getty Images
