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How to leap from Idea to Prototype

Hi,
I`m a novice inventor .
I have a product idea and I have been keeping track of my progression on my inventor log. I have a very basic concept drawing as well.
My issue is, how do I turn this idea stage into a prototype? I need some mechanical engineering help and I am wondering if there are professional mechanical engineering services that advises on what mechanical parts works best, etc. for my product. I live in Detroit area and I`m sure there are some engineering services out here. How do I find them? How expensive is their services (ball park)? Better yet, are there any free services from government for small business/inventor who need engineering help?dream2reality2007-2-10 23:35:26
I`m a novice inventor .
I have a product idea and I have been keeping track of my progression on my inventor log. I have a very basic concept drawing as well.
My issue is, how do I turn this idea stage into a prototype? I need some mechanical engineering help and I am wondering if there are professional mechanical engineering services that advises on what mechanical parts works best, etc. for my product. I live in Detroit area and I`m sure there are some engineering services out here. How do I find them? How expensive is their services (ball park)? Better yet, are there any free services from government for small business/inventor who need engineering help?dream2reality2007-2-10 23:35:26
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Comments
I have several problems regarding some inventions I have come up with.
The most important problem is a lack of funds to have prototypes made. I am disabled and getting SSI which is just barely enough to live on, never a penny left over to do anything with, seriously I can`t afford to even go to a fast food place for a burger once a month.
I have seen many of my ideas eventually show up on the market, I came up with the idea for wipes with 409 on them at least a year before anything like them showed up on the market.
My son and I used to collaberate but he passed away 5 years ago and I am alone now, so no one to even discuss things with.
I have several ideas that are basically medical or "assistive technology" and a lot of others that are just things I come up with.
Is it possible to find a company that would make a deal for part ownership of the idea in exchange for doing the physical part of the ideas?
In the past I have contacted a few companies but when I read the non disclosure there always seems to be a clause that states if the company comes up with the same idea I won`t hold them responsible! I have never gone through signing one of those ND forms since I have extreme reservations about that clause.
Does anyone have any ideas that can help me get to the next stage? I don`t have any collateral that would help secure a loan of any type and it`s so frustrating to see one of my ideas end up on store shelves and know that I am still in the same boat.
Thank you for this forum and site!
RunesOfGaia2007-2-28 19:40:42
Ashton2007-4-20 12:20:7
1. Decide what you are trying to accomplish with your design and prototype. State your goals with as much detail as possible. Review these a number of times to get them as accurate as possible. Review with a trusted partner.
2. List your design benefits and weak points. Be honest and critical. Decide what areas you need to concentrate on. Are there a few problems or do all areas need to be improved? Think about Safety, Quality and Cost.
3. Determine what type of services are required? Do you need Design reviews, analysis or drawings? Don`t throw money at your design until you determine what needs to be done. Remember, more services cost more money. Limit your scope of work.
4. Find the right services. There are one stop Companies that can assist you or you can go to specialists for the service you require. Be wary. If a Company says they are going to make you rich, look elsewhere. You may make money, but lot`s of hard work comes first. There are honest and dishonest Companies. Make sure you get a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) signed to protect your interests.
Don`t be in hurry to get to the prototype stage unless you can do it for very low cost. The first prototype will simply show you all the things that you need to change for your second prototype. More money! Get the prototype design correct first. Please know what you want before asking how much it costs. The more general your needs, the more someone will charge to for achieving your goals. The more specific your goals, the more limited the costs will be.
Above all. Enjoy what you are doing. Good luck.
PS: My startup company, White North Design, may be able to assist you. I work in the Detroit Area. http://www.whitenorthdesign.com</A>T5Five2007-8-19 12:58:56
Creating a product concept
Design
Prototyping