We have a small niche product we have been developing and testing for the past while. The CNCzone has been very helpful in getting us "into" manufacturing it ourselves in lieu of Licensing it for production.
We did use the patent process as leverage when meeting with potential manufacturers (Harken/Catalina/Ocean/etc).
The patent process helped us because:
1. It showed we were serious - "some of our skin" is in the product and we are willing to put out effort (we just didn't come from the docks with an idea)
(RESEARCH - Existing products, Prior Art, etc; DESIGN - Real Images not sketches; HARDWARE- Testing of product; and not part of patent but useful -- Market Survey and Analysis)
2. Offered us and our product protection - non disclosure, etc (even though the firms are reputable)
3. Provided some much needed focus to some of the details of the product and improved the design.
We did start with attorneys - blew them off - they didn't understand the product (not their area of expertise). That brought us to purchase some great tools and software to help better describe the our product. Writing a patent to get through the system requires a good deal of effort to get it "RIGHT." That effort has better help us articulate what it is/does/how it works -- and will be deployed in our marketing/sales effort.
We will continue developing and bring it to market as IP/trademarked and copyrighted material. The idea of strike hard/strike fast for a year or so as in example above seems like a sound approach. I guess if you are willing to accept the flattery of someone copying your design as flattery - then you don't NEED a patent.
Besides, who needs another plaque on the "I Love Me Wall" showing off that you bought a patent?
As an aside, I am convinced that utility patents have their place - but if you want a quick and dirty one - a Design Patent would get you the plaque!
:cheers: Jim
Experience is the BEST Teacher. Is that why it usually arrives in a shower of sparks, flash of light, loud bang, a cloud of smoke, AND -- a BILL to pay? You usually get it -- just after you need it.