An invention must be new, non-obvious, and useful to qualify for a patent. It can be a product, process, machine, or composition of matter that offers a novel solution to a problem.
The patent approval process can take anywhere from 12 months to several years, depending on the complexity of the invention and the backlog at the patent office.
While it is possible to apply on your own, hiring a patent attorney or working with a service like InventHelp can improve your chances of success by ensuring your application is accurate and thorough.
Filing costs vary but can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Additional expenses may include legal fees, professional drawings, and patent searches.
No, a patent provides legal protection but does not guarantee market success. However, it gives you the foundation to seek investors, license your product, or build a business around your invention.