Ask HN: Patent for your idea?
Just wondering at what point do you file patent for your idea.
Also, is there a way to find out if someone else have filed provisional patent for the same idea?
Also, is there a way to find out if someone else have filed provisional patent for the same idea?
A few reasons to patent: . you really have a defensible invention, in which case you should be doing this with a patent attorney . to gain negotiating advantage, in case you get drawn into a patent fight . to give the impression you've invented some truly innovative tech - some VCs like this . to increase company valuation, in the eyes of VCs and others
A few reasons not to patent: . if you disclose your tech, it could be easily copied without your knowledge . a patent on your invention is not worth the cost to file or defend your patent
I could be wrong but I don't think you can patent an idea, but rather, a specific process, method, technology, etc... That said, the overall cost of a patent can be quite expensive, ranging in the 5-figures all told. Its a process at that.
As for your original question, I guess like most things, it depends. Personally, I would like to see the idea gain some traction first before you attempt to make any unnecessary expensive decisions towards doing a patent, especially if you don't have the money to lose.
It often happens that patents appear to have significant overlap, so "the same idea" is a problematic way to look at it. These aren't really evaluated thoroughly until and unless legal proceedings result.