by Robert P
(Big Rapids, MI)
I have a fully working game board prototype that my friends, peers and I have been playing for about a year now.
I want to transfer the prototype to be able to play it on the internet, CD or other computer interface. I haven't invested in a patent, just looked on the websites under PTO and Google. It appears to be an original concept.
Because the game subject is well known and patents are expensive, I don't wish to invest the money in a patent yet (at least my own money).
What should I do now?
Answer:
If this were my product and I felt like it was something that had market potential I would file a provisional patent application.
Filing a provisional patent is not a complicated process, the forms can be downloaded at the USPTO, and costs about $110 for an individual.
Once you have a provisional patent filed you have 1 year to file for your utility patent. Make sure not to go past a year as your provisional will expire after that time.
One year should be enough time to decide if you want to license your idea to a manufacture or sell it yourself.