Inventor-Entrepreneur.com

WELCOME - Home Page

2020-06-25T19:21:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Inventor-Entrepreneur.com

I'm Tom Kershaw, the Inventor In Paradise

We're all about the business of product pursuit.

Got a Great Idea?

Here you'll find videos, hints, tricks and horrors-

all about inventing, developing & marketing.

Our sidebar has an index of topics and titles to

help your navigation. Enjoy!

6 Hour Provisional Patent Application

2012-01-17T22:40:00.000-08:00

It's true.
I wrote a complete Provisional Patent Application in 6 hours.
Here's why... and how... it was done.
My protoypes of the Putting Tuner Tracker were constructed the first week of January.
They were destined for display at Discovery Village during the Regional Inventors Fair, Saturday the 14th.
So Friday was dedicated to composing a Priovisional Patent Application.
First, at 9:10 AM, I pasted another recent hair-brained application to my computer.
With a familiar reference to edit, it was easy to follow a sensible pattern of text presentation.
Altering earlier pages of Background, Description, Summary and Variations helped stimulate similar attention to details, benefits and uniqueness of the Putting Tuner Tracker.
A descriptive Sell Sheet showing the Putting Tuner Tracker prototypes was included.
And , of course a copy of my Inventor Logbook page showing initial concepts of the idea.
Then obvious changes were made to the Application Title Page and the required USPTO forms.
On the same day, at 2:49 PM, I mailed the whole bundle and a $125 check to the USPTO.
So, really... It was done in less that 6 hours.
And there is no excuse for "sitting" on your ideas.
As Larry, the Cable Guy says.... "Get 'er done."

2012 Regional Inventors Fair

2012-01-17T21:34:00.000-08:00

The 25th annual Thomas A. Edison Regional Inventors Fair took place Saturday, January 14th at the campus of FGCU.

Kevin Lollar of the News-Press wrote a review including comments from E.I.A. member Elmer Zettle who said " Those kids are really amazing....people think schools don't teach anything, but, my gosh, come to these fairs and see some of the stuff these kids come up with."

Let's thank the E.I.A. members and others who volunteered their time as judges,etc throughout the day.

Meanwhile, the E.I.A. display at Discovery Village informed folks about the invention process...and how we offer inventor assistance at monthly meetings.

Of course, the kids had fun shooting mini hoops and learning how to putt a golf ball at a musical target.

Again, thanks to all who helped this event.

EIA Meeting 11-16-11

2011-11-19T19:11:00.000-08:00

Over sixty five folks enjoyed the November meeting of the Edison Inventors Association. Two inventors presented products in hopes of grabbing a $2000 grant to offset product development and patent expenses. E.I.A. members will decide which great idea gets the annual award.

Maureen Moravec displayed decorative and washable blankets and wheelchair pads designed to absorb embarrassments of toddlers, teens and adults.

Ryan Liker showed his Power Roof Vent that pushes out hot attic air while conserving your hard-earned money.

Both were great presentations....a tough choice!

Meanwhile, Patent Attorney James Cardle held court. He answered concerns regarding the Provisional Patent Application and how it’s effected by the recent patent ruling of “First To File” replacing “First To Invent”.

It's how E.I.A. members contribute to help others....thanks, Jim.

Every month (but December) E.I.A. members meet at the Edison-Ford Winter Estate.
Find inventor info at http://www.edisoninventors.org/.

Like-Minded Friends

2011-08-24T15:14:00.000-07:00

Many of us join an inventor club to listen and learn from folks who have proven products and are willing to share their wisdom.
Simply put, we seek the camaraderie of like-minded individuals.

This short video shows fellow E.I.A. member Mark Pasek (and his inventions) helping me with ceiling repairs.

I pass it along with gratitude…and envy of his ability to develop such useful, marketable products.

After viewing, you’ll find Mark at http://www.liftalone.com/

Tom was lucky

2011-08-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

This story was emailed to many friends...and it's repeated here to help anyone I missed.

Friends,

I’ve been telling friends and doctors for some time- that I didn’t feel well. Something was wrong!

I felt nauseous. I took pills. I swallowed upset stomach stuff. I had a stress test – and a CAT- Scan. One night a short walk brought a burning chest pain. Next day, mowing the lawn brought the pain again. A quick check of my high blood pressure tried to warn me.

The bouts of burning pain and high blood pressure became more frequent upon even limited work, exercise or physical stress. I searched the web for clues and references to my problem.

Several things, including stomach faults were mentioned. But, the primary repeated threat was that of a heart problem. I now had a chest burning pain and high blood pressure while sitting listless in a chair. Wednesday afternoon we raced to the emergency room of Cape Coral Hospital.

Yes, I was quickly diagnosed as having a heart problem. It took two nitroglycerin tablets under the tongue to calm the pain. Next, an NTG patch was stuck to me - for timely release. Then an I.V. tube was dripping a bagged supply into my arm. Doctors planned procedures for the morning.

Next day, an ambulance hurried me to HealthPark Medical Center in Ft. Myers for immediate attention.

There, my gurney got right in line – awaiting cardiac catheterization and diagnosis.

Dr. David Bailey found the problem- a 95% blockage of the RCA (Right Coronary Artery), supplying the heart.

Using angioplasty procedure he planted a stent to re-open my artery - hopefully forever.

You can view this painless procedure on a 3 minute virtual video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7nghr9TpSU

Don’t you dare miss it!

And please, remember the warning signs I witnessed - and react before it’s too late.

Good health, Thomas Kershaw http://www.inventorinparadise.com/

Shovel Shield

2011-06-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

Every homeowner wonders - "Where can I dig safely...to plant a bush, a fence post or anything else...without fear of hitting a water pipe, electric line or service cable".
Now, you can avoid digging disasters - before expensive repairs, outages, accident or personal injury.

The Shovel Shield is an invention (pat. pend.) to warn you of dangers buried beneath the soil. You (or anyone else) can easily bury a Shovel Shield slightly above water pipes, electrical lines and service cables that deserve protection from shovel damage. Your shovel hits the protective shield - to warn you of dangers below.

Lengths of Shovel Shield can be extruded or molded of rigid materials or formed from flexible "tape" material - strong enough to halt your shovel stroke...and grab your attention. Obvious graphics, labels and warnings on the Shovel Shield quickly inform you of dangers below.

Pool Lap Counter

2011-06-22T12:01:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry...But - I love simple ideas.

This one - my POOL LAP COUNTER (pat pend) is now displayed in the Edison Inventors Association cabinet at the Winter Estate of Thomas Edison in Ft. Myers. Folks from around the world can wander around the museum and marvel at the genius of Mr. Edison. Hopefully, they'll stumble upon our display and realize the lure of inventions (and hair-brained ideas) still survives today.

Okay, my idea can't compete with Edison's accomplishments. But like most novices, my attempts are often just simple solutions to everyday haunts....like keeping track of my laps taken in the pool.

Look at this engineering marvel. Isent it with a video to Edison Nation in hopes someone likes the idea.

Like I said, I love simple ideas.

Putting Tuner As Seen On T.V.

2011-05-29T17:59:00.000-07:00

We just finished putting together a short video about our Putting Tuner. That's our tighter target golf device that encourages a firm putting stroke. For reward you receive music and a returned ball.

This video proves Putting Tuner is "As Seen On T.V."

Bella's Report on Female Inventors

2011-05-19T19:41:00.000-07:00

My friend Bella wrote a few words to remind us that the invention process is not just ‘a man’s world’. She’ll get no argument from me.

Tom,

If you often find yourself sitting in your car, windshield wipers wiping the rain out of your way and your morning coffee in hand, then you have women to thank.

They’re the inventors you’ve likely never heard of, but they’ve changed our world in so many completely integral and often crucial ways, that their virtual anonymity is a travesty of our modern world.

But Melitta Bentz’s Coffeemakers and Mary Anderson’s windshield wipers aren’t the only things women have done to change our world. Admittedly many of the female inventions centre around the home, reflecting society’s decision to keep women tied to the kitchen and to children, but there were also some stunningly revolutionary inventions centering around science and technology that we owe entirely to the wonderful female mind.

In 1809, Mary Dixon Kels was the first woman to receive a U.S Patent - for making hats! Her new process for weaving straw with silk or thread improved the hat making process, providing an opportunity for American industries to replace the loss of European goods after Napoleon had blocked trade to the New World.

But it was actually Sybilla Masters who is the first American female inventor in recorded history. As early as 1715, this amazing woman invented a way for cleaning and curing the corn that was given to the Colonists by the Native American’s, and had to be patented under her husband’s name due to the rule that women could not own patents at the time.

Since this landmark event, the world has changed rapidly to accept women as equals in society, and female inventors have carved this path alongside the famous feminists we all know so well, and perhaps one reason for this is the sheer importance of the inventions they designed.

For instance, in 1871 Martha Coston invented a pyrotechnic flare called ‘Night Signals’ allowing ships to communicate messages at night - making ship to ship and ship to shore communication possible for the first time. Her idea was purchased by the U.S Navy and became known as Maritime Signal Flares - an integral invention to the maritime world still used extensively today.

Perhaps one inventor that you may have heard of before is Marie Curie - the two time nobel prize winner, scientist and inventor. Before her death in 1934 of leukemia she studied x-rays and discovered that they could kill tumors. This Polish scientist was the first person to discover Radium and Polonium, and it was her extensive investigation into these radioactive materials and their medical uses that led to her cancerous death - literally sacrificing her life to make huge developments in the medical world that we know so well today.

The medical world also owes laser eye surgery to Patricia Bath, who, in 1988 became the first black female doctor to receive a patent for a medical invention. Her method for removing cataracts transformed eye surgery as we know it today by using a laser, making the entire process far more accurate, and therefore not only more effective, but safer.

We also owe our victory in WW2 to a movie star named Hedy Lamarr. This multi-talented woman invented a system that manipulated radio frequencies, making the possibility to communicate in an unbreakable code a possibility for the first time.

Even the computer world has been transformed for the better by women, with Grace Murray Hopper inventing the first computer compiler, affecting the way software is written and ensuring it is no longer a time consuming process. She also developed OBOL - the first user friendly computer software program, altering the way people interact with computers to this day.

In fact, there are so many female inventors that to name them all would take far too long! The interesting thing to note, however, is how their consistent presence in a predominantly male world has earned women worldwide a greater deal of respect as equals by the opposite sex. Although we often only thank the revolutionary feminists, carving out a path of equality with demonstrations and court actions, it is important to research and fully understand the forgotten inventors that we take advantage of each and every day.

From disposable diapers and ironing boards to the isolation of human stem cells and a safe alternative to asbestos, women have affected an otherwise male world with immense revolutionary transformations, earning women worldwide a greater deal of equality and ensuring that today women are able to be properly educated and invent with complete support, rather than complete skepticism.

I for one, as a female writer sitting here in the modern world, have an awful lot to give thanks for - and it’s a real shame to me that these pioneering women have been so largely forgotten - perhaps a sign that our job is not yet done and the male world is still a little insecure about their position in a time when women are proving themselves to be undeniably great over and over again, day after day, decade after decade.

Yours, Bella

E.I.A. Display Case 5-2011

2011-05-05T12:01:00.000-07:00

Members of the Edison Inventors Association are very fortunate to have such a great meeting place. Each month (except Dec.) we meet at the famous Edison-Ford Winter Estate, Ft. Myers Fl. We arrive at 6 p.m. every third Wednesday and the formal meeting runs from 7 to 9. Often we have a show and tell program where members brag about their latest idea, or others tell about services they offer to benefit our inventive efforts and the organization. The main program often includes a notable and informative guest speaker.

We have a new Display Cabinet for showing some hair brained ideas and other materials. It's our offering to entertain the inquisitive visitors and spread recognition of our organization. Likewise, this post is intended to keep you abreast of the cabinet status - and to remind members of this fantastic opportunity to display materials of interest to the club and the many folks touring the Edison-Ford Winter Estate, from all over the world.

EIA Meeting 4-20-11

2011-04-24T15:06:00.000-07:00

A crowd of innovators and entrepreneurs filled the April meeting of Edison Inventors Association at the Ft. Myers Edison-Ford Winter Estate – to enjoy two timely presentations.

Jimmy Picard, a club member/inventor, started off with a show & tell slide presentation of his clever invention. It’s called the “PiCard for Flash” and described as a “memory card organization system”. It’s small enough to slip into a wallet and solves a large problem. Thin and compartmented, it organizes and protects the various shapes and sizes of memory chips fitting today’s array of hi tech cameras, video recorders, phones, and computers. Jim says “you’ll never lack for memory”. He provides a reader to assist memory exchanges between such devices. He even distributed a Focus Group Questionnaire.

The main speaker for the evening was James Cardle, PHD, Patent Attorney, and proud EIA member. He was brave enough to spill insight on a hot issue – proposed changes to reform the U.S. Patent System. It’s serious stuff to most inventors and gadget builders. The battle is about keeping our “first to invent” ownership claim (U.S. inventors often favor) or adopting the more worldly “first to file” ruling (now being considered at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office).

Mr. Cardle enlightened us to the good, bad and ugly points of either option. His calm, compassion and humble humor introduced terms and incentives regarding the alternatives. He shed light on issues of disclosure, filing, patenting, searches, prior art, derivations, prior use and imparting knowledge to the public. Like I said, he spilled a lot while capturing our attention. At the end (either way) we're better informed for supporting our personal position – and we gave Mr.Cardle a deserved applause.

Visit http://www.edisoninventors.org/ for info on meetings and inventor assistance.

Lost My Marbles

2011-03-09T19:05:00.000-08:00

We've submitted another idea to Edison Nation....hoping to license this product. It's one part toy, part balance board and a candidate to assist therapy and recovery of motor skills.
More importantly...it's a lot of fun!

You stand on the board, wiggle around to move marbles toward a target hole. See how fast you can drop them thru the hole...out of sight. How quickly you can lose your marbles?

Cape Coral Car Show

2011-02-28T14:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I stumbled upon a car show. It was at the Cape Coral Yacht Club Community Park. Of course, I was late. There was time to stroll and grab a short video as the vehicles departed. Next year, my star of the MGB Videos might be entered. Take a quick look at this video of the Cape Coral Car Show.

Shoot Some Hoops!

2011-02-24T20:42:00.000-08:00

Okay - We just posted
a new web site:
free-throw-shooter.com
We seek some feed-back.

We have a contest called Free-Throw-Survivor.com
All ages/skills submit their score from 40 free-throws
to enter and create a Tribe Total score to compete
with another. You guessed it! Only one Tribe survives.
There are videos and shooting tips...and some
special product deals for subscribers.
All players can re-enter. Send in another form.

And who says you can't have an embedded auto
Email responder form on Blogger. The one we
created feeds directly to my PC spreadsheet.
Please take a look,,I'm open to suggestions.
Thanks...TK.
ps. Yes, it's on Facebook!

Fuel Injector Story

2011-02-16T19:33:00.000-08:00

Dale Goble is “The Fuel Injector Man”. He’s a great example of an entrepreneur seeking success in a specific niche market. He inspects, cleans and services those testy outboard fuel injectors that argue with ethanol gas and quickly clog with tiny sediment.

YUP! This story begins because my 115 hp 4-stroke Yamaha was stalling. It hardly made it home. I figured my injectors were clogged….and searched the internet for a resolution.

I stumbled on http://www.fuelinjectorman.com/ of Naples, Florida. It’s a site worth viewing. There’s a menu (left side) for videos. In one, Dale shows how simple it is to remove outboard injectors - all by yourself. A second video shows actual injector flow testing. The site offers a short order form and packing instructions - for sending your injectors for service. Dale emails confirmation upon their receipt…and again when they’re done. PayPal handles the settlement and Dale ships them back. But there’s more to it!

The Injector Man returned my injectors enclosed by protective shrink wrap, and bubble wrapped in a secure box via U.P.S. – within 3 working days. He even confirmed by phoning me! In the box was a bar graph printout sheet. It shows the fuel flow of each injector (before and after service) and a comparison of improved performance.

Dale had flushed the injectors, used an ultra sonic bath, and installed new filters. Then he checked the flows for consistency of performance. He did all this for a quoted rate of $16 per injector (well below the average charge of $20). Look closely at my shrink wrap photo. Dale even scribbled a “thank you” note.

This story has a message for all entrepreneurs. Many of us seek such an opportunity in a niche market (whether retail, service or product fulfillment) – but we fail to anticipate the immense personal attention often required. The truth is, business success doesn’t happen by itself. Any competitive endeavor requires outstanding performance, products, service and/or customer satisfaction… beyond your competition.

You can bet Dale’s business will continue growing. He’s found the viral formula. Hey, I’ve already told this story to friends at garages, marine shops and written this post. So the secret is out! Dale’s simple trick for success is this: “Thrill your customer”.

Forgot Valentines Day

2011-02-16T19:30:00.000-08:00

I forgot to buy a Valentine card. So I found a favored one my wife had saved. Secretly, I pasted it as a screen saver on her laptop. She discovered it later and was thrilled to see it. Her hero hinted it was there days ago (Very inventive of me!). Doesn't it warm your heart?

HAPPY NEW YEAR - Fish Story

2011-01-04T12:31:00.001-08:00

More Good/Bad/Good News!!

On Jan 2nd some great neighbors invited me to join their guided fishing experience in the shallow waters of Pine Island, Florida.

We had a blast! We caught our boat limit of Trout and Redfish.

Okay, bad news is....I caught the fewest.

Good news is...my sneaky camera was busy - grabbing clips to remind my friends of certain highlights now exposed.

HAPPY NEW YEAR - Gun Story

2011-01-04T11:51:00.001-08:00

Let's start 2011 off with good news and bad news.
As usual, I'll give the scary stuff first.

During target practice - my inventor friend Steve had his 38 special explode in his hand. He suffered some burns and someone else took some shrapnel. The good news is... no-one was seriously hurt. From this photo I conclude they were VERY lucky.

The Secret Combination

2010-12-17T10:12:00.000-08:00

I love passing on these dumb ideas. They make my own ideas seem more valuable. This one must be rated as a classic dumb idea....one of the best ever.

In Florida, homes seldom have cellars. People need extra room to store stuff like furniture, tools, machinery and junk. We use a small self-storage facility for hoarding boxes, shipping materials and inventory of my unsold clever ideas. Okay, you can call it junk!

So this is another tenant story...another dumb ass idea...of a tenant at the storage facility. Remember the kayak that fell from the ceiling? This story is even better - or worse - depending on your view.

Apparently, one tenant has trouble remembering the combination of their locked storage unit. So- they developed an ingenious solution. They simply painted the respective numbers needed to open their tumbler combiation lock. Simple! Align the painted numbers..and the lock opens!

Look closely at the padlock...another secret number is ready to revolve into position with the other colored figures.

What a clever idea! Now the tenant has no trouble getting through the door. Any caveman can do it!

Remember this story when evaluating hair-brained ideas. Some ideas seem good at first...but end up being really stupid.

2010-12-03T18:19:00.000-08:00

The new eBook version of Inventor In Paradise has pictures, sound, videos and flipping pages. It’s for inventors, innovators and entrepreneurs of all levels and experience. It defines the process of profitable product pursuit - how to “make it happen”. The book gives more than stepping stones for fruitful development of ideas and product marketing. You get unforgiving rules, procedures for product evaluation and definitions of the protections for your ideas, inventions and products. The author’s personal insight, stumbles and success offer enlightening testimony to the persistence required.

You’ll read revelations and confessions of the good, bad and ugly dealings with chain stores, factories, China, marketers and flimflammers. You’ll learn techniques to prove ideas are worthy of pursuit. You’ll get hints and tips for selecting packaging, manufacturing, pricing and licensing of your products.

Thomas Kershaw is the inventor of BALLBACK – a successful basketball return device that populated sport stores, big box marts and grabbed a licensing agreement that many inventors dream about. As president of Ballback Inc - with an expanding family of products - he tells the real story (and the horrors) you face while pushing products to success. As a Floridian (and mentor to others), he’s known as the Inventor in Paradise. Tom’s new eBook has the all the details and comments to assure us… he’s been there.

Inventor Saves Dog

2010-11-27T18:47:00.000-08:00

It was the day after Thanksgiving this event occured. Later the story appeared in the Ft Myers News-press. I copied it again here...as evidence that some inventors are decent human beings...some of the time.

Turkish Ice Wrap

2010-11-18T22:44:00.000-08:00

Here's another invention we submitted to Edison Nation for discovery and/or development. We can only hope! Edison Nation holds product searches to accommodate interested Brand names, manufacturers and entrepreneurs looking for products. Who knows! Someone may think this is a great idea.

AVALANCHE - An Unusual Bowl

2010-10-28T21:05:00.000-07:00

I can't wait any longer. It's time to reveal some inventions that are piling up. Why? Well, the prototypes are done, submitted and we want to get things going. You know, I have to clear my calendar, the garage and my head for other hair brained ideas. But this one, this one is pretty good. It's a bowl. It's a cereal bowl. Or a mixing bowl. It can even be a dipping dish. Okay, okay....it could be a silly idea. You be the judge!

EZ Home Guard

2010-10-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

Great ideas often solve simple problems!

Like other folks, we had a problem with our screen door. Actually, the problem really lies with the screen door latch. It’s nestled too close to the screen. There’s too little room for your hand to operate the latch lever – without your hand, knuckles or fist poking into the screen. Reaching further to trip the distant locking lever is even more difficult. My wife often chips her nails…and hollers. We were fed up with repairing screens and latches!

So, we developed the EZ Home Guard.

Wanna see a FREE VIDEO...
and more of our story???
Check out http://www.ezhomeguard.com/

We explain the product and hint some marketing manuevers...like pre-launch sales and counter-top displays.

3 Ideas For Edison Nation

2010-08-31T19:49:00.000-07:00

Edison Nation offers Blogs, forums and videos to inform and assist the everyday inventor. Like many others, I joined Edison Nation to get ideas in front of retailers and manufacturers. Members can submit innovative ideas for evaluation, development, assistance or possible selection by sponsors of Live Product Searches -for particular products. Members can upgrade to “Insider” status that offers discounts on service fees and participation in special Open Searches for innovative products of all kinds. An Open Product Search just closed (8/30/10) and I just barely made it in time.

For months I’ve been chasing three ideas that seemed worthy of pursuit - meaning they might become profitable products. The ideas came quick. Prototypes took longer. And market research seemed to take forever.

Writing narrative text for video filming, editing and uploading the packages brought me to within hours of missing the deadline. But, my submissions were accepted in time. Fortunately, patent materials were already sent - by express mail. Now I can tell you about them!

AVALANCHEtm is an innovative bowl intended to satisfy a friend. He whined about his cereal being too wet…or too dry. Not enough bananas, or too many. AVALANCHE has a secret way of sliding stuff (cereal - fruit- nuts) into a puddle of milk. Just as you like it!

The TURKISH ICE WRAPtm evolved during my 23 straight days of decompression under Chiropractic care. After every session, I needed lower back chilling from ice packs (20 minutes on, 20 off and 20 on again). I had time to doze and dream a better way to apply crushed ice for numbing various parts of my anatomy. This idea feels better than the bowl!

LOST MY MARBLEStm evolved from my balance board idea that grabbed attention at this year’s Discovery Village. It’s a test of balance, dexterity, reflexes and seeing how fast you can lose your marbles. It’s more fun than the other ideas!

Now I have time to finish my next two harebrained ideas. Edison Nation won’t have another Open Search for a few months.

College Kids Screw up

2010-07-26T18:54:00.000-07:00

Three college seniors once rented the third floor of my apartment house near campus. After various noise complaints, I visited them to discover a large kayak toppled on the floor.

The boys thought it was a cool idea to hang the kayak in the living room, until it fell from the ceiling. Two bent eyehooks still protruded from above, some strands of twine hung freely, and we counted nine random holes poked through the ceiling.

They had a little trouble finding the studs – for the hooks. Then they used frail hardware and undersized twine. Recalling my college days, I forgave the flap of judgment and poor selection of materials. After all, they’re just college kids!

Then I learned they filled the kayak with ice and beer for an all-night blast that brought down the Kayak and flooded the floor. They crossed the line. Their bad judgment had grown into a dumb ass idea. (Repairs were subtracted from the parent provided damage deposits).

When chasing ideas, planning prototypes and spending limited funds - inventors can’t act like foolish college kids. We have to display more maturity and more caution while chasing our inspirations. Our ideas must be thought out, displayed properly and actually work well when presented.

While testing innovations, remember my college boys. Use effective materials (not the weaker twine), seek outside assistance (a stud locator), and avoid embarrassing mishaps (ice & beer overload). An inventor should qualify, modify and perfect his idea to a level of acceptable performance. Prototypes needn’t be perfect – but they shouldn’t collapse during display.

Don’t expect partners, investors, licensees or the general public to forgive such innocent or foolish mistakes in a prototype presentation. Don’t screw up – like the college kids.

New Orange Juice Cap

2010-06-22T15:01:00.001-07:00

We inventors get upset when seeing great, new gadgets discovered by others. The simple inventions (nothing hi-tech) frustrate me the most. Even single piece products can solve a problem, improve something or somehow enhance our everyday lives. Everyone loves ideas that are cheap, clever and offer an obvious advantage. Some of us secretly boil with frustration and a crippled ego from not discovering the idea first. We could have earned the fame and the glory. Now, we missed again. There’s a new orange juice cap!

To many, the simple plastic orange juice cap seems just an uneventful item. It started as a common screw-on cap atop a cardboard carton – hardly different than any other. The early caps were white, opaque or clear – nothing memorable.

A marketing genius must have suggested changing the cap color to orange. Now it seemed better matched with the colored carton and the liquid within. But the shape remained short and round, with a flat top - like any other cap.

Finally someone had the WOW idea. They molded the cap to look exactly like an orange. It’s spherical like an orange. It’s colored like an orange. And the surface is dimpled like the skin of an orange. Every morning millions will marvel how it looks like an orange, feels like an orange and identifies the orange juice carton. They’ll agree it’s a great idea - cheap, clever and an obvious advantage. Damn, why didn’t I think of that?

Gadget Nation Shows Putting Tuner

2010-05-30T19:21:00.000-07:00

Steve Greenberg, the guru of Gadget Nation is on tour again. He’s visiting TV shows to pitch innovative products from grateful inventors. To introduce the items - he shares keen description, short demos and a flair for entertainment.. He's good!

His appearance on “The 10! Show” from Philadelphia was great. Steve bragged several innovative ideas before host Bill Henley tried our Putting Tuner. (Steve's leg had a go-cart mishap). After Bill’s perfect putt (poing!) the studio audience was treated with freebies. Steve came thru –we’re happy! Click our Putting Tuner to see the show.

We like our Putting Tuner placement at the Gadget Nation on-line store. It features a poster, prose and a fun video. Click their logo to visit Gadget Nation and see our listing. A menu of his travels is shown at “Where Is Steve”.

The Perfect Retail Package

2010-04-13T22:18:00.000-07:00

Here's a video about the Perfect Ratail Package.

When strolling through stores I look for great packaging. I’m always watching to see which box, container or display is grabbing customer attention – mine included. I’ve concluded that the perfect retail package must do at least five things...

1. Grab customer attention.
2. Display and identify the product
3. Advance perception of use, need or desire.
4. Secure and protect the product
5. Facilitate closure of the sale.

What’s the chance of finding a package that follows the five rules? Does one exist? Yes. I found a great example of perfect retail packaging when wandering the aisles of Harbor Freight in Fort Myers.

I was snooping for some additional tools (which I really don’t need). A huge, colorful flat faced plastic package was hanging at eye level. Proven colors of bright yellow, deep blue and bullet splashes of red and white were shouting for my distant attention. I could clearly see four neatly spaced - big, bold and beautiful black handled crescent wrenches.

You can always use a new crescent wrench. They wear out, don’t adjust and often slip when you tug hard on a frozen bolt. Here was a mammoth selection of four graduated sizes – neatly stationed like aligned soldiers ready for assignment to duty. They beckoned closer attention.

The package was much bigger that the products needed. The wrenches were spaced in graduated length and adjustable size capability…to handle any job (big or small). The spacing allowed each tool to be enclosed by preformed plastic compartments that aligned them snugly, safely and allowed spacing for uncluttered text. The 6”, 8”, 10” and 12” graduated sizes of professional grade tools were neatly identified. They were heavy-duty allow steel, with cushioned grips, hardened precision ground heads, and SAE markings to sort sizes and adjustment ranges. A prominent bullet shouted out the limited lifetime warranty.

Pulling the package from the hook, it nearly dropped to the floor. This was substantial. The package weighed over 4 lbs and the plastic was thicker than ever. It would take industrial shears to cut it open. My perception of product quality was being reinforced. These tools were heavy weight, heavy duty and substantially packed for shipment, delivery and protection. Even a molded carrying handle was tough, defying any rip and tear. It was made to hold the weight. Clearly the tools would withstand extreme abuse – just like the package.

At check out, the product was quickly identified as intact (tamper proof) and the prominent bar code was quickly scanned by table top. She double bagged the package for safe handling, commenting one bag wouldn’t handle it. Before leaving I checked my receipt to assure the item was recorded correctly. It was. The four massive wrenches – along with the powerful package had a special price of $9.95 – for a limited time only.

I haven’t opened the package yet. I love bragging about it following my five rules of a perfect package. Remember? A perfect package must…

Grab customer attention.
Display and identify the product.
Advance perception of use, need or desire.
Secure and protect the product.
Facilitate closure of the sale.How impressed was I? I wanted to buy another. I could open it and actually use the tools. The original purchase would remain sealed for presentation, display and video use.
Too bad! When I returned to the store – the packaged wrenches were SOLD OUT.

Retail Packaging Hints

2010-03-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

Inventors get a lot of fatherly flack from marketers. They often claim we fail to understand the importance of packaging. Marketers think we “fall in love” with our products and overlook the value of creative presentation, promotion and perception. They say we don’t understand “packaging”. They say “You don’t know what you don’t know”. I know I’m tired of hearing it!

Geez, how marketers rant and rave over packaging. Again and again they say the package is as important as the product. More important, some say. They produce buzz words to explain. They say retail packages must SHOW, TELL and SELL. Then they explain in rapid fashion…wham, bam, bang.

SHOW: The package must entice initial attention to the product.

TELL: It must quickly describe the product and its benefits.

SELL: It must create desire to purchase and facilitate the sale.

Well, marketers don’t own the retail playground - or the buzz words. Inventors know the retail package has to GRAB, BRAG and SEAL THE DEAL. Here’s what we’re talking about.

GRAB: Your package must GRAB the strolling customer. You’ve got 10 seconds to do it. Learn what they like. Do they want to “see”, “feel” and “handle” your product? Do they prefer it hermetically sealed from the environment? Are similar (successful) products displayed upright on shelves – or are they hung from hooks? In other words, where will customers look? Where do they expect it? Knowing that,, you want to “dress” the package with vibrant colors, print and graphics that grab attention - from ten feet away. Your package- the shape, style and look is the magnet that draws them closer. Bring them in!

BRAG: A colorful package may include bullets, stars, happy faces, kids, puppies and other graphics that warm a customer’s heart. Now that they are feeling good…BRAG about the product. It’s NEW! It solves a problem, has function and is easy to use (no tools). No extra clutter – keep everything neat, concise, attractive and easy to follow. Create an insatiable desire to own your product. Brag benefits, brag brand and brag price. They shouldn’t go home without it!

Of course, your attractive package should complement its preferred shelf (hooks or display). You want it right side up, within easy reach and ready for fondling. The package helps the customer decide, accept the price and walk away pleased….package in hand.

SEAL THE DEAL: This is the final duty. Your package already bragged about the affordable price and the wonders of your product. Make sure your package (or flier) is securely attached, wrapped or sealed (as a box) to avoid unnecessary delays during check out. Your UPC code should be big, bold and readily accessible. You impressed your shopper with an attractive package, great benefits and a fair price. You won the customer. Don’t screw up at the check-out. Have the package “check-out friendly” to Seal The Deal!

Okay, now you know a little about retail packaging. Stroll some aisles to check out the packages that draw you in. See how they’re prepared to grab, brag and seal the deal. Next time the marketer babbles about the importance and rules of proper packaging…just politely nod your head. That marketer doesn’t know what he doesn’t know.

Enjoying A Quick Fix

2010-02-03T14:02:00.000-08:00

Sometimes inventors have a habit of over-thinkiing things. We take the long road to figure things out, instead of grasping the simpler solution. That's when we bang our head and wonder why we didn't see the obvious.

Don't fret; it's natural to fear the worst. We seem to anticipate jobs, chores and home projects to be harder than they really are. To our credit, we usually plan more than ample time - according to the task. And we've learned to enjoy quick accomplishments.

Such is the story of this video. It tells of an easy correction of an oil leak abnd nauseating engine smell. It reflects several lessons.
1- Jobs aren't always as difficult as imagined.
2- You can be rewarded with time to brag and toast success.
3 - It might be wise to keep such things a secret.

You'll have to think about it!

Thank The Whistleblower

2010-01-11T12:27:00.000-08:00

Recently, Bradley Birkenfeld blew the whistle on some U.S. tax evaders. It’s reported as the largest tax fraud in the world and a Swiss bank paid a $780 million fine to the U.S. while giving up names of 4,450 suspected tax cheats. Birkenfeld was rewarded with a sentence of more than 3 years for his activity in handling such wealthy American clients, even though he cooperated with the internal revenue to recover billions. The National Whistleblower Center is enraged at the severe sentence. I’m upset for other reasons.

I know very little of the facts, particulars or legalities of that case. Likewise I’m informed only by public news reports of similar cases of involving repenting whistleblowers. So, I shouldn’t judge them. However, I must express my concern over our apparent overall distaste for whistleblowers. It’s unfortunate that we Americans are taught not to tattle, squeal on friends or bad mouth a brother. Damn, that’s bad news for an inventor!

Inventors are easy prey for unscrupulous people. We’re emotionally attached to a great idea. We love to hear how wonderful our widget is, and how successful it will become. Naturally, we welcome unsolicited interest and assistance from others. We imagine such great rewards. Our invested time and money become justified, necessary and often encouraged by new found friends.

But, responding to assistance for product development often places our name on a suspicious mailing list. Enthusiastic product promoters appear from nowhere. Inventors become bombarded by golden opportunities promising likely profit. If our patent is issued, we're mailed personal congratulations from unfamiliar marketers - and it appears long before the official USPTO announcement arrives. The inventor is promised a means of marketing, mass distribution and corporate presentations. We hear bragged abilities and promised results to encourage the next payment plateau. Actual results are always anticipated if not assured. Meanwhile more funds are requested. Novice inventors have particular trouble telling the good guys from the bad. No-one needs a whistleblower more!

Thankfully, inventors have reputable clubs, associations and other sources that preach scam awareness. Blogs, newsletters and networking issue alerts on who or what to avoid. But, we still hear tearful tales of unfortunate friends being tormented by ugly realities of product pursuit. And money continues to be wasted on imaginary assistance.

When finally selling product, we’re duped by devious marketing contracts. They often include orchestrated penalties hiding deep within vendor compliance terms. Inventors and entry vendors often lack patience or understanding of intricate shipping rules, labeling, delivery windows and designated carriers. Your invoice payments may (surprisingly) show imposed deductions for chain store advertising, new store openings and defective merchandise allowances. Such things remain legal, usually identified by fine print, and seldom emphasized as important – until your ravaged check awakens personal concern. Didn’t anyone tell you?

Lucky inventors learn such things early from their peers and seasoned sources. Mentors willingly disclose pitfalls, promises and personalities the unwary should avoid. We all love success stories, but need to hear he nasty side of business too. Please, don’t call it squealing! We deserve a level playing field. We should all abide the rules of honesty and integrity. Every inventor, entrepreneur and businessman should thank the whistleblower.

Salute the Quarter Pounder Founder.

2010-01-02T12:45:00.000-08:00

Let's salute Al Bernardin. His death from a stroke at 81 reminds us that he invented McDonald's Quarter Pounder, Filet-O-Fish and is credited with discovery of their Frozen French Fries. But, there's more to his story...and mine.

Don't be blinded by mere memories of the famous fries and great sandwiches (with beef, pickle, onion, mustard, Ketchup, on a sesame seed bun). Al's ideas influenced industry, business and employment extending way beyond the fast food counter.

My bio discloses designing tooling for McDonald's containers- including sandwiches and their breakfast program.

Before environmentalists noticed littering of "foam" containers - our design firm, tool shops, manufacturers, packers and distributors enjoyed the fruits of Al Bernardin's imagination. Today those benefits belong to the pulp people - who supply bags, boxes and tissues to continue the trend. Regardless, many folks still owe their income to the ingenuity of Al Bernardin. He remains a great example of a successful inventor who influenced our lives.

Truth is - the scope of this inventor's influence stretches far beyond ones taste, touch and immediate satisfaction of a sandwich and fries. He sent ripples around the world.

Al Bernardin is also credited with bringing the hot apple and cherry pie desserts to McDonald's. We designed tooling for a tiered tray to stack the frozen (Bama Pie) desserts for delivery to Golden Arches. Then they tanned beneath special heat lamps timed for toasting before serving.

Just ponder all the people connected to this simple dessert idea. Yup, the tray tool guy! But, also add tray packers, delivery, advertising, heating stations, display racks, and all else related to the incidental addition of those tasty pies. It's evident that even Al's simple dessert had an impressive impact reaching beyond consumer (end user) benefit. Other great ideas do the same. Inventors dream about it!

We salute Al Bernardin for the flavor and success of his fries, burgers and such. Likewise, lets acknowledge his contribution to subsequent business, industry and economic growth. Think of all that related stuff - the people, the investments, the jobs and opportunities. Yes, we still measure inventions by their ripples.
Al Bernardin deserves another salute!

A 7 Foot Tower Of Ideas

2009-12-25T20:45:00.000-08:00

Tht Edison Inventors Association is always concerned about promoting membership and encouraging our inventor community. Members donate time and talents to judge inventor fairs, attend talk shows, and do community service while representing a club that’s willing to help others. Young, old, and experienced inventors and entrepreneurs gather each month to discuss issues, discoveries and assistance we all appreciate. Our web site edisoninventors .org relays a lot of club info. Now there’s a Tower Of Ideas to help grab attention.

The Tower Of Ideas is a 7 feet tall triangular shaped monument - loaded with posters, pictures, patents, inventors, innovative ideas, and E.I.A. literature. Dressed with garland and holiday greetings it’s on display at The Edison Restaurant on McGregor Blvd, Ft. Myers. The big display is hard to miss. Exactly! That’s the point!

Other inventor clubs, business groups and friends on My Space and Facebook have been invited to tour the Tower on this web site. Perhaps they’ll want to duplicate the idea for publicizing a product, business, service or inventor club. A free eBrochure titled “How To Build A 7 Foot Tower Of Ideas” is available. The book has hints, tricks and cost of similar tower construction. It’s free and easy to download!

With a DNL reader installed – just click the book cover. You’ll learn all about the Tower Of Ideas.

For fast download, first click for a free DNL reader on our sidebar (if you haven’t yet). Then click any DNL Flippin eBook you find.

DNL is a super safe, virus immune format for multimedia or other publications (photos, audio and videos incluided).

Yup, it’s all FREE. Like I said, members of Edison Inventors Association are here to help. Happy New Year!

What's A Flippin' eBook?

2009-12-16T12:11:00.000-08:00

There’s something new on the sidebar of our web page. You’ll love it! It’s an unusual eBook format called a “multimedia eBrochure”. The topic is Tom’s Bio, titled “How to Become an Inventor in Paradise”. The pages flip when touched. But there’s more to the story!

By nature, eBrochures are brief, informative and entertaining presentations. Nothing dull seems allowed. You’re surprised by embedded sound, exploding photos and mini videos. Friendly content is easily absorbed along the way.

Such short stories and their bigger brothers - multimedia eBooks – are produced by software from DesktopAuthor.com utilizing transmission of DNL files. This publication format offers an exciting tool for sending your message of product promotion, vacations, business opportunities or a personal bio (like mine). You’ll see!

What is DNL? A visit to Desktop Author explains it better. They report a super safe, virus immune procedure for transmitting multimedia materials (photos, audio and videos). You’ve seen many videos where mouths move – and sound comes later. Some media transmissions are haunted with stalls, flickers, delays or stoppage. DNLfiles were created to avoid such issues.

After scanning viewable samples eBooks, eBrochures and a trial program, we purchased software from DesktopAuthor.com. They offer tutorials, instruction manual, and a sales/distribution program for your publications. In short, their program releases several pages for reader review, stalls for purchase procedure and releases remaining pages. The author gets a “royalty”.

Our short bio book conforms to rules allowing free submission and free distribution within their eBrochures.com program. It was a quick test of something ideal for travel logs, product presentations and brief bios.

You can submit a multimedia publication of 22 MB max (our Bio book is 20 MB) to their public library. However, your viewer may visit a landing page of library ads before selecting your book and must download a temporary DNL reader for viewing. To try it- click the book cover of this post. It just takes a while.

After testing, we moved our published DNL files to our domain host. Now, our publications are delivered free and fast within a compressed, super safe Zip file. Just click the sidebar eBook image. Our bio book downloads within 60 seconds. But WAIT!

Before that (if you haven’t already) click our sidebar link for a free, direct download (no advertizing) of the DNL Reader. It takes only 15 seconds. Everything is faster, safer!

Our sidebar DNL reader goes directly to “download mode”. No extra landing pages of confusing ads or icons leading you elsewhere. In 15 seconds, you’ll you get “congratulations” and are ready to witness all future DNL files with ease. Now, Click the book - You’re good to go! (You can still get the book by clicking the book cover in this post. It just takes longer!)

We’re planning additional eBooks and eBrochures for disclosing news of inventions, products, innovative ideas and some tales to interest inventors and entrepreneurs. Here’s hoping you enjoy the results! Maybe you'll dream other ideas for this format. Let us know!

Big Business Kicks Little Infringer

2009-12-04T21:15:00.000-08:00

As reported by Dick Hogan of the Ft. Myers News-Press here’s another Story about big business kicking the little guy for infringements. It's a tough tale - but inventors, entrepreneurs and businessmen must play by the rules...or suffer.

Mark Joseph enjoyed national attention with his colorful “Foreclosure Tours R Us” bus (a real estate sales gimmick). But Toys R Us claims “copyright infringement”. Toys R Us warned Mark of copyright infringement for using language and images too close to their logo. Mark estimates legal expenses may cost him $25,000 already.

News Press photos showed Mark standing in a TOY’S R US parking lot – waving the surrender flag. He’ll change the name, but keep the bus color and business concept.

Here’s the legal mumbo-jumbo meaning of the draft agreement from Geoffrey LLC (Toys R US) sent to Mr. Joseph as reported by the News-Press....

… According to the draft, that means "the name FORECLOSURE TOURS R US, or any other name incorporating (a) R US, (b) ARE US, (c) a reverse R, (d) single or double quotation marks around the letter 'R,' (e) balloon lettering that is similar to the font used by Geoffrey, (f) any combination of the colors red, orange, green, pink and yellow in a manner similar to the color combinations used by Geoffrey, (g) the image of a star, or any other of Geoffrey's proprietary marks or designations (collectively the 'TRU Marks') which is otherwise confusingly similar to the TRU Marks, anywhere in the world."

EIA Meeting 11-18-09

2009-11-21T17:48:00.001-08:00

The November meeting at the Edison-Ford Winter Estate included a standing ovation of appreciation for Dr. Gary Nelson. He’s been the president, the heart and the soul of Edison Inventors Association for seventeen years. Everyone knows it!

Dr Gary Nelson
17 yr President Of E.I.A.

Joe Gross
New President of E.I.A.

Even with other community activities tugging his time, Gary will remain an active member and recognized ambassador of E.I.A. He introduced newly elected president Joe Gross and both expressed enthusiasm for the clubs future. Then Past-President Gary Nelson sat relaxed with other members to enjoy a meeting, a speaker and a new president - for the first time in seventeen years.

The Edison Inventors Association meeting was haunted by computer video problems again. But, our guest speaker remained calm, well versed and ready to recite informative insights of the “packaging industry”.

Warren Schirado of MacFeirie Technologies Corp (Cape Coral) opened our eyes to the art, science and purpose of packaging. In short, packaging assumes three important duties: exciting the customer, relaying product data, and protecting the product itself from accident, injury or abuse.

Warren noted advantages of package materials, markings and colors for enhancing product recognition, beyond “over the counter” generic offerings. Packaging samples illustrated his concern for the three things all packages fear the most: compression, vibration and dropping. To avoid these dangers, he introduced wrappings, inserts and controlled testing. Warren advised inventors to anticipate their packaging requirements for product presentation and protection – before finalizing product designs. As usual, thinking ahead would be smart.

P.S. Edison Inventors Association welcomes speakers to share time and talents with our gathering. Fellow member Warren Schirado gained appreciation and thanks from all for contributing. It’s what our club is all about.

Smart Inventor Shows Rust

2009-11-12T09:50:00.000-08:00

I posted this story on Facebook and My Space...friends liked it, so I'm adding it here as an example of my thoughs (good or evil).
...............................................................

Inventors must be smart about materials…and other things too.

My wife wanted a wheelbarrow - to help her yard work. We went shopping right away. What a smart idea!

Rosie liked the first little red wheelbarrow she saw. I said, no way! It’s all metal. It will rust. No matter, she loved the red color. I argued our coastal climate and salt air would eat it up. She whined about it being “so cute”. When I grabbed a green fiberglass model that would be better, she bristled. We bought the red one.

Two years later, I’m being smart again. We had to toss the rusted-out whellbarrow...hardly anything left. I cleverly pasted a screensaver to Rosie’s laptop. She can enjoy her rusted-out wheelbarrow forever. Well, maybe I knew a few things after all!

P.S. Rosie will never see this story. How smart is that!

We Need USPTO Watchdogs

2009-11-09T20:18:00.000-08:00

The Associated press has announced that Government Investigators said the Federal Emergency Management Agency ignored the law and misused $7million to build two warehouses after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. An inspector general report said some of the money FEMA misused should have gone toward Katrina victims in Louisiana. Surprise! Surprise!

GET REAL! Katrina hit Louisiana in August 2005. That’s a while ago. Our alert government watchdogs took only four years to admit the political paybacks, insider favors and pork barrel spending that siphoned our tax dollars. As usual, they‘re slow in admitting funds went to undeserving pockets. Residents of New Orleans were aware much sooner.

Sadly, you can never trust third- party people with handling your money. It just doesn’t work. Scammers, frauds, Ponzi schemes and pork-barrel projects thrive on such opportunity. Today’s shysters have no scruples or apparent accountability. Our government’s flippant spending habit runs rampant. Money is pissed away every day. Elected officials fail as responsible watchdogs. Our economy knows it. And so do the folks of New Orleans. Fortunately, I have an answer.

I suggest we utilize the resources of the ever diligent United States Patent & Trademark Office. Since birth, our Government has always sifted funds from the Patent Office. It’s treated like an ugly sister. Ugly, but wealthy! Scoundrels of other agencies have constantly stolen funds intended for updates, growth and efficiency of the Patent Office. Now, there’s possible payback!

Imagine how well the U.S.P.T.O. could scrutinize unreasonable government expenditures. No pork-barrel spending or road-to-nowhere would get past them. Patent examiners are the perfect fit for denying unwarranted expenditures. They already have a DNA overload of skepticism.The most efficient patent examiners (cruelest, if you will) should provid a consulting service.

This plan is almost taxpayer free, since wages and retirement already exist. Plus, the examiners might enjoy getting even with some unfriendly politicians.The group’s ultimate duty would be to scrutinize government applications for flippant spending as witnessed during disaster relief.

Well, let’s include any other windfalls of spending our money, too. Disaster suffering citizens deserve better. So do everyday taxpayers.Our Patent Examiners have an inbred ability to critique, criticize and refuse almost anything. (Have you ever filed for a Utility Patent?) They can brag about an 80% refusal rate. Their desk has an “easy button” with large letters saying “NO”.

This group can be decisive, super- steadfast and even ornery at times. Shysters wouldn’t stand a chance of sneaking unworthy, stupid stuff past Patent Examiners. Oh, I love the thought. Don’t you?

Louis Foreman Visits E.I.A.

2009-10-24T13:39:00.000-07:00

Local inventors, entrepreneurs and like- minded innovators packed the October 21st meeting of the Edison Inventors Association. The room at the Edison-Ford winter estate needed more chairs. A lot more! The word was out. Louis Foreman was coming to Ft. Myers – to inspire those seeking success with product pursuit.

Louis Foreman knows success very well. He created the PBS TV show, Everyday Edisons, and remains Executive Producer and lead judge. He’s the publisher of Inventors Digest – the bible of our inventor community. He’s the CEO of Edison Nation. And now Louis has co-authored his first book The Independent Inventor’s Handbook.

Mr. Foreman has admirable credentials of being appointed to a USPTO Advisory Committee and being a founding member of The Inventors Network of the Carolinas. He’s also the founder and Chief Executive of Enventys, a product design and engineering firm. He’s well armed with awards, recognition and accolades for volunteering, teaching and lecturing. Louis still finds time to visit inventor groups like ours. Surely he knows, we’re hungry for his words.

Louis Foreman couldn’t hide from his being an inventor/entrepreneur at heart. The audience heard tales of selling sports gear from his college frat house - which began a string of successful startups. He spilled hard-earned advice to his attentive listeners. He encouraged an early business evaluation of every “great idea”...

Verify their benefits of desirability, usefulness, cost and profit. Qualify, quantify and know your customers – and what they spend. Recognize the total package of retail realities and personal commitments you’ll face. What about financing, manufacturing, distribution and licensing? Inventors need a plan (a roadmap) for the total journey of their product pursuit and assured success. In short, a “great idea” isn’t enough!

There’s no doubt Louis was appreciated for sensing our struggles, sharing secrets and relating to the audience. We applauded!

Copies of his book The Independent Inventor’s Handbook were sold fast and signed slowly – as Louis took time for friendly chats. He generously donated all book proceeds to The Edison Inventors Association. We thank Louis Foreman for being one of us – an inventor/entrepreneur at heart.

Rich Dad Review

2009-10-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

I question most “get rich” schemes and “money making” opportunities. But, it’s only fair to “check them out”.

Recently I attended a “Launch Your Business Workshop” presented via “Rich Dad Education”. The tag line promoting the workshop was “ Learn to start or grow your own business, now”. Materials solicited my attendance by claiming I should learn some pointers of how to… raise capital, choose business structure, negotiate, pay taxes, provide leadership, and profit. I would get a free copy of “The Power of Owning Your Own Corporation”. Yes, all free!

The free 2 to 3 hour workshop hinted the principles of Rich Dad Poor Dad. The formula for success seemed to rely on investing in “assets” (such as income producing things - self-employment and income property). In other words, avoid working for “the man” and a meager paycheck. That’s their mantra for earning “big bucks”. Like I didn’t know!

Repeated rally cries for crowd participation with “raise your hand if…” and questions like “who’d rather be rich…” could not defeat my growing indifference. I wanted substance!

Half-way through the workshop, it became apparent that precious particulars would be revealed only upon enrollment in a 3 day “extensive’” course. That would cost $995. BUT WAIT! It will only cost $495...if you sign now...today only. Ouch, I hate that pitch...time to go!

Perhaps you paid and will benefit from the program, but I prefer investing in other assets (holding value). In fairness - I checked them out….heard enough…and left without my “free” book. WAS I WRONG??

Merwyn Evaluation

2009-10-20T12:50:00.000-07:00

I submitted data of my Putting Tuner invention to the Merwyn Business Simulation program. They supplied a questionnaire to evaluate and assist marketing of the invention. Data becomes viewed by interested manufacturers, distributers, licensees and marketers. After enjoying the Planet Eureka "Innovation Roadshow Workshop", I felt it was worth a try.

To view short videos of the Putting Tuner, check my earlier post below (dated Aug. 13 and titled "Product Videos").

What's my motivation for submitting info to the Merwyn program? In short, I seek all available assistance to "push" my products to market. However, I like to "cautiously" evaluate anyone approaching any likeness to a "product submission" enterprise (the industry is full of scammers). However, my initial perceptions of Planet Eureka and Merwyn are most favorable. They claim to be the "real deal" , sincerely interested in assisting the inventor with "realistic" product pursuit. So, like I said, I felt it was worth a try. We'll know more later.

Similar news of my Merwyn trial was posted on an "INVENTOR" forum under "Business" within "Business & Entrepreneurs" (dated 10-3-09) on: forums.myspace.com. And I requested friends to post comments and insights on other "inventor helpers". Please do so! Maybe we''ll get some good, bad or ugly tales. Regardless, I'll keep you posted on tales and trials of the Putting Tuner.

Edison Inventors Association

2009-10-20T10:02:00.000-07:00

Innovation Roadshow Workshop

2009-10-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

WOW! I survived a 9 hour "Innovation Roadshow Workshop" hosted by the Small Business Development Center of Florida Gulf Coast University, Planet Eureka, and the Edison Inventors Association (my favorite club). I must admit it was enlightening and well worth my 6 A.M. wakeup. Maybe you've heard of the famed Eureka Ranch and inventor guru Doug Hall. Yes, WOW!

Our workshop opened as Dan Regelski, Regional SBDC Director introduced Ken Bloemer, Executive Director of Planet Eureka. Ken reluctantly insisted we all sign a confidentiality agreement to keep all secrets within the walls. There was no need. He won us over with personality, performance and insights we inventors beg to hear and hold forever.

Exposed as an inventor himself, Ken proved sympathetic to our needs, faults and desire for product success. For market push he supplied facts, figures and secrets to ”get’er done”. Like-minded entrepreneurs were soon exchanging ideas, slaying naysayers, and yelling supportive assistance to excite everyones product pursuit. We became family! The time flew!

Dan Regelski planned appropriate time for coffee, donuts and fruit. At noon, boxed lunches appeared with extras for an afternoon break. Likewise applauding this program, Dan echoed our appreciation of the FGCU facility and supplied pamphlets of other planned business events.

(Picture of Dan Regelski (left) and Ken Bloemer)

PlanetEureka.org will post the details of future "workshop" locations. I urge every inventor and entrepreneur to attend. Just set your alarm to a low number and be prepared for a high flying day that will blow you away with… Oops, that’s all Ican say! (Except thanks also to Cathy Solich of EIA).

7 Traits of an Entrepreneur

2009-10-12T19:13:00.000-07:00

Gannett News Service provided our local paper (Ft.Myers News-Press) with a story claiming there are seven traits of an entrepreneur. I’ll repeat them here – in short form with comments of interpretation.

7 Traits of an Entrepreneur

1. You are driven to succeed (motivated to achieve goals).
2. You are a self started-go getter (without instruction).
3. You see opportunities-not problems (challenges spur you on).
4. You take control of your destiny (bearing responsibility).
5. You risk security (regardless of safety net).
6. You thrive on change (welcoming the ride).
7. You know the necessity of profit (money motivates).

They said the word “entrepreneur” originated from the French word “entreprendre”- meaning “to undertake”. The word emphasizes an attempt to act – not the outcome of the action. That’s bad news!

It appears you become an “entrepreneur” simply by “trying” like hell. “Succeeding” isn’t a necessary part of the formula. Even a continuous failure at business can claim the distinguished title of being an “Entrepreneur”. Ouch! I don’t like the sound of that!

Let’s avoid contorted definitions and unearned claims. Let’s reserve the title of “Successful Entrepreneur” for only those who satisfy the seven traits and reach their goal of actual “accomplishment” or “success”.

Being just an “entrepreneur” is admirable and acceptable as a “GOOD THING”. But, becoming a “successful entrepreneur” is much more enviable and a “GREAT THING”. It deserves special recognition, reward and the more meaningful title.

(Surprise! Surprise! Some say “success ain’t easy”. Here’s hoping you can grab the prized title of “Successful Entrepreneur”).

PatentEase Review

2009-10-09T21:50:00.000-07:00

PatentEase is a software product from Inventorprise Incorporated. It’s intended to guide you through the patent application process quickly and easily. To test the product, I compared efforts and results to those experienced when filing a previous patent application.

The "Provisional Version" of PatentEase contained a CD-ROM and a 151 page book or explanation of terminology, pull-down menus and exercises to explain necessary entries. You’re prompted to fill in the blank data fields – following instruction and examples. The software stores your early data – and compiles your help for future requirements. Here’s their roadmap of specific “sections” for sequentially “building” your patent application.

PROPERTIES: History and General Info on inventors.
TITLE: Title, Purpose, Field of invention, Related Applications
DRAWINGS: Enter sketches, graphics and written descriptions.
ELEMENTS: Identify components & location on drawings.
CONNECTIONS: Connect & identify relationship of elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION: Technical details describe the Invention.
SUMMARY: Invention description of objects or purposes.
RELATED APPLICATIONS: Specifics patents, prior art & known references.
BACKGROUND: Describe the problem - other solutions & shortcomings.
ABSTRACT: Initialized from the data you provided.
CLAIMS: Likewise, generated by “one click”software

Many inventors welcome any motivating assistance when facing a patent application. The programmed steps, prompts and procedures of PatentEase may benefit “first time” and “seasoned” filers – by keeping them “on track” during the procedure. PatentEase can help, but after my trial run there are some concerns.

I stumbled with the awkward computer drafting options. I prefer conventional methods for creating drawings, leader lines and element identification. For me, sketches and alteration are easier with familiar pencil and paper. They become part of the critical info fed to a qualified patent draftsman. He's familiar with the tedious drawing rules of the USPTO. Are you?

I suggest the program generated Abstract and Claims are useful, but should be accepted as informative “go-bys” needing further work. A Patent Attorney or Patent Agent should be consulted for proper wordage and presentation. They know the USPTO language and the art of forming Claims. Read some Abstracts and Claims of issued patents and you’ll discover a different world of strange prose and purpose. Don't screw this up! Get help!

Even with the faults, I still recommend using PatentEase as a “learning tool” to help with the patent application process. It's not a bad thing. But, search the USPTO for “reference patents”. Compare their language, entries and formats. You’ll agree with my three point summation:

1. The PatentEase program can assist your filing of a patent application.
2. Reading issued patents will benefit further comprehension.
3. Prepare a competent conversation with a patent lawyer or agent.

This combination may reduce burdens, fees and mistakes. Play it safe! If your great idea deserves a patent application - make sure it's a good one.

Inventor Plan

2009-10-03T13:03:00.000-07:00

Today I posted some info on MY SPACE about my attendance at a recent seminar by Planet Eureka. I’m hoping my FORUM topic will generate comments on “Invention Submission Companies” (like those on TV - with terrible reputations). I want to pass it all on and warn everyone of the reported horrors. Likewise, I hope to direct traffic to this site (and my sidebar sites) to allow open conversation and input regarding respected assistance for inventors and entrepreneurs. Do you know the difference between the two?

I say inventors are thinkers, tinkerers and folks with innovative ideas (sometimes having several boiling at one time). Too often, they have secret things that stay hidden “in the closet”.

I define an entrepreneur as one actively pursuing a product – doing their best to turn the invention into a viable, profitable product. Yes, they have secrets too – but are more likely to aggressively network to accomplish their task.

My experience says that entrepreneurs are the real risk taker. They usually invest more money and effort than the inventor. They have to nurture the idea into a marketable product by considering the real world of designs, materials, manufacturing, packaging, distribution, commissions, price and marketing avenues. They “dress" your product for best presentation and possible success - to “make it happen”. It all takes time and money….far more than the initial inventor dreams, sketches, welding, bending and clay modeling. The things I favor!

Sometimes the inventor becomes the entrepreneur. However, many inventors are limited “part-timers” - without time, talent or funds to advance into marketing their product. Others, like myself, may admit they wore both hats ...poorly. Only a few are really good at it. In short, inventors must learn to network with other expertise.

Too many inventors fantasize they can “do it all”. Maybe they can “help”. But, most of us should team with “full-time” marketers (reputable experts) and let them contribute the skills we lack.

Okay! Okay! I am not belittling the inventor. I am one. I know our strengths, our struggles, and our pain. But, I admit it - the horrendous burdens of pushing a product to reality are far too difficult for most inventors. We should save our time for inventing – doing our part of the plan. Focus on your personal talents and abilities. Stay where you are most "productive". Be the best you can be, but avoid being what your NOT. Try Networking!

Hear my plea - partner up with experts. Please, release those frustrating (mundane) productions and/or marketing burdens. Yes, you can orchestrate activities - manage the overall business plan. But, learn to share the burdens and rewards. Let others help to “make it happen”, and reward them properly. Everyone needs a nice piece of the pie - (just like the inventor). But limit your visits to the kitchen. Let the cooks do their magic. Inventors should focus on their own thing - discovering another “great idea”. That's enough responsibility!

Now you know why I took the time to attend the Planet Eureka “Roadshow Workshop” and spent hours preparing my invention submission to the Merwyn Business Simulator. Let me tell you, it wasn't easy. But, I practice what I preach. My goal is to gather every productive “partner” who can lessen my burdens, help my products and limit my distractions. I'm busy inventing!

Trust me, I don’t know what will happen. But, I’m committed to teaming with others who can "push" my products (like the PuttingTuner) and “make it happen”. I need time for tinkering! What's your plan?

Ballback & Ballback Pro With A Video

2009-09-13T22:29:00.000-07:00

A VIDEO - BASKETBALL SKILL & FUN!

WANNA MAKE MORE SHOTS?

Here's our story...

Some basketball players dream of improving basketball skills. Making the winning shot. They listen to "free-throw Gurus" who want you "in the moment". Most basketball techniques of shooting drills advise a concise repetition of preparation, form and follow through. Confusion comes in finding your personal "touch".

Practice of free throw shooting helps you find the stance, stretch and rhythm for efficient and effective scoring.

Better basketball shooting seems to win most games. Some of us avoid severe basketball drills. We shoot hoops alone, in the driveway. Just for the fun of it! That's where we practice the repeated stance, timing, toss and trajecctory of our free-throws.

We love the thrill of hitting shots,,,and having the ball bounce back to the line. Take another! That's the story of BALLBACK

.....................................................................

We have two great Basketball Returns.....

BALLBACK

The "improved" Red Ballback
fits "standard" home rims
U.S. retail @ $14.95
Plus Shipping

..........................................................................

BALLBACK PRO

The new Orange Ballback PRO
fits all home rims
(even spring loaded)
U.S. Retail @ $19.95
Plus Shipping

Putt Like A Pro

2009-09-12T11:40:00.000-07:00

You'll love this video! It's about helping your golf game. Forget boring putting drills and endless pro putting tips. Putting practice has never been such fun. As usual, the simplest tool seems to do the best job. Putting Tuner teaches you to stroke firmly, with on-line accuracy to lower your score and put fun back in your game. Are you ready to brag about "putting out" with no yips or gimmies? Get ready to putt like a pro!

PUTTING TUNER - Every golfer wants one

Putt Like A Pro
Tune Up Your Game
Save Strokes
Putting Tuner is the Perfect Golfer Gift

PUTTING TUNER is a great golf putting practice aide.It's solid aluminum (anodized finish) for stability & long life.You can use it on the putting green - (anywhere -even in the hole) or on carpet in your own home.

A tighter target (the tuning fork) kicks perfect putts right back to you. You get a musical note and a great reward. Stand 4 to 5 feet away and stroke firmly. Hear the music. Stroke again!

Forget the yips and the gimmies. Put like a pro. Practice your routine, stance and stroke. Develop the confidence of great putting. You'll enjoy the game a lot more. After practicing with Putting Tuner...the hole looks like a bucket.Putts account for 40% of your score. Don't miss the short ones. Forget the bad grass, spike marks and volcanic mounds near the hole. Stroke with confidence. Obey two rules:

Maintain a true target line. (Hit it!)
Get the ball to hole (Hit it!)

Proper putts should firmly reach the hole - to fall in. Repition of routine, stance and firm strokes keep the ball on line. Confidence helps. So will Putting Tuner!

It's fun to practice with Putting Tuner - anywhere.

Putt Like A Pro
Tune Up Your Game
Save Strokes

Putting Tuner
is the perfect Golfer Gift

Special Offer to my U.S. subscribers only $19.99 with
FREE cotton filled Gift Box.

Many pros will suggest you find the most comfortable putter of choice. (They like to sell clubs). It'll work wonders for a while - until it's familiar and you concentrate less. Then it's little better than the last one. How much did that putter cost?

Sorry, but real putting skill comes from practice. And putting practice is dependent on routine, stance and stroke. It's that simple. Yes, there are distracting hills, valleys and nasty slopes on treacherous greens. But, you must have a pure stroke aimed at a distinct target for every putt alignment...no matter the desired destination. You MUST hit your chosen target. That's what Putting Tuner is all about!

Oh! Didn't the pro tell you....good putting requires practice - practice - practice. I bet he did!

And he probably mentioned those words - routine, stance and stroke. Sometimes that gets a little BORING. But, not with Putting Tuner. Home gatherings, coctail parties and golf stories become more fun when your friends enjoy some short strokes, hear the music and get a retrurned ball...for another stroke.

PUTTING TUNER in a
cotton filled gift box

It's a perfect Golfer Gift.

They'll remember you every
time they putt.....
and when they add their
improved score.

Available to my U.S. subscribers only $19.99
with FREE cotton filled GIFT BOX.

Product Video Variations

2009-09-11T22:29:00.000-07:00

Here are two examples of using videos to explain your product to different audiences.First you’ll see my “original” clip that appeared on You Tube under my channel "Inventor Videos". This video was part of a series of instructional/informative entries to assist other inventors and entrepreneurs (my targeted audience in this case).

The second Video describes the same product, but in a different manner. This version may appear more viewer friendly (with some humor)- but still informative. It was intended to encourage sales of the item – rather than dwelling on the invention process. Notice how this video is flavored to entertain a more "public" audience. Following the video is a paragraph from its presentation on a dedicated web site http://www.puttingtuner.com/ (where you’ll find further description of the product).

"You'll love this video! It's about helping your golf game. Forget boring putting drills and endless pro putting tips. Putting practice has never been such fun. As usual, the simplest tool seems to do the best job. Putting Tuner teaches you to stroke firmly, with on-line accuracy to lower your score and put fun back in your game. Are you ready to brag about "putting out" with no yips or gimmies? Get ready to putt like a pro!"

YANKEE EXPO

2009-08-26T14:58:00.000-07:00

Bad news just arrived...we pass it along for your info....

2009 Yankee Invention Exposition

The Board of Directors of Yankee Invention Exposition, Inc. have reluctantly decided not to hold the fifteenth annual 2009 Expo this October as planned.

The major reason is a lack of response from exhibitors, due perhaps to the down economy, which points to a smaller expo than is feasible. We understand that we are not the only ones who cancelled invention expos this year, so we believe that the economy is a major factor.

Going forward, our organization sees a clearly perceived need of the individual inventor or small business for education as to how to move an idea into the marketplace. It is our intent to fill this need.
-- William C. Crutcher, President

WELCOME BACK

2009-08-24T17:46:00.000-07:00

Inventor-Entrepreneur.com now includes informative content from Inventor Videos, Inventor Cart and Inventor In Paradise. Those sites (and several others) may continue to stand alone. But, Inventor-Entrepreneur.com will keep you abreast of postings and news from all locations. You can still subscribe to an individual site. Subscribing here assures a brief "heads-up" to all activities of interest.
Navigation? Our sidebar allows quick click to any selection. Welcome Back!

Defending Design Patent

2009-08-20T17:31:00.000-07:00

The August issue of Inventors Digest includes an article by Kevin Prince called “Defending Design Patents”. He supports some advantages of the Design Patent to protect unique aesthetic qualities or features of your product. And he stresses the marketing advantage of any “Patent Pending” notice - much less an issued one. Hey, I said all that in this clip from Inventor Videos. Enjoy!

Inventor Videos Update

2009-08-14T14:20:00.000-07:00

The re-release of Clips 14 (Trademarks) & Clip 15 (Trademark Horror Story) concludes my update of 21 "original" Inventor Videos of subjects that assist inventors and entrepreneurs. The 21 videos were revamped to include logos with topic titles, music, text highlights and transitions between images and videos - all intended to make their presentations friendlier. Future videos will follow this favored format. Here's Clip 14.

At Inventor Videos these 21 videos are labeled as related to "Patents" or other "helpful" info to assist indexing of the topic material. Some videos include description or reference to Utility, Design, Plant and Provisional Patents. Others cover Credibility, Flimflammers, Worthy Products, Niches, Confidentiality, Copyrights, Trade Secrets, Logbooks and Trademarks. Future videos may be indexed by other topic labels to help identify their content. Here's Clip 15.

Our sister site (InventorVideos.com) is dedicated as a library of these (and other) videos. Random topics range from product presentations and marketing techniques to inventor insights & experiences. Whenever a video appears as part of a post on Inventor-Entrepreneur.com or InventorInParadsie.com - it will be archived at InventorVideos.com as well. The topics may drift from inventor interest to other matters, but remain informative and entertaining. Take a break...and visit InventorVideos.com from our sidebar to see other Clips...then bounce back.

Combination Patents

2009-07-20T17:09:00.000-07:00

A recent meeting of Edison Inventors Association included a discussion regarding patent qualification and availability. Several attendees voiced concerns about pursuing patents when their ideas resembled “improvements” or “combinations” of items already patented. As usual, specifics of each invention were guarded. But a common question was asked. Can you patent an improved product evolving from a combination of other ideas – whether new, old, patented or not?

MY easy answer is to simply comply with the requirements of a utility patent. It demands “uniqueness” - and there’s a chance your new idea will be deemed “obvious”. Both qualities are ultimately determined by authorities of the USPTO. Even then, rejections and issuances might be challenged. Either way, it’s a battle best avoided. So, it’s better to do a thorough search to prove worthiness of your idea - before wasting time, effort and money. Always consider the keywords: “uniqueness” and “obvious”.

Similarly, the combination of items, or the supposed improvements of such items must likewise be “unique”… and avoid the “obvious”. Simply altering things - like changing materials or adding wheels and brackets - may not qualify your improvement as being “unique”. The rejections for being “obvious” may imply that others would have considered, thought of or adapted such variations all by themselves – without your inventive foresight. Sorry, no patent for you!

An example of a successfully patented “combination” or “improvement” is presented in Robert Merrick’s book - Stand Alone, Inventor. He had the idea of attaching a transparent calendar to a watch crystal. How simple is that?

Early advisors discouraged Merrick’s pursuit of a patent. Calendars were already in use. So were watches. But, Merrick filed a “combination patent”. His attorney agreed Merrick; “had fashioned a transparent pressure-sensitive label with a monthly calendar printed on it, which is removably attachable to the crystal of a watch.” The USPTO also agreed, and awarded a Utility Patent for his “Watch With Transparent Calendar.”

You stick or peel the calendar film

So there you go. It can be done. You can seek a patent covering the combination of known ideas or patented products. But, your idea must be “unique” - and avoid the “obvious”. Good Luck!

Basketball Survives - Shoot Some Hoops

2009-07-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

You don’t have to be a die-hard sport fan to love shooting hoops. Free throws bring the game back to home court level – where anyone can play. This post introduces a new web site, some fun and a hint of things to come- aimed at every free-throw shooter.

First, I’ll always be a frustrated basketball player – too small, old, and slow. But I still love to shoot hoops. Like many, I limit my game to the confines of my driveway. That’s where I can win all the games I play – by myself. All alone, time and again, I hit the imagined winning goal from the foul line. Free-throw shooting still thrills a lot of lonely players. You don’t have to be tall, strong or super-human. You need nothing more than a ball, a goal and time for pleasure.

Years ago, I learned to hate chasing the ball. It interrupted the fun. That’s when and why I invented BALLBACK – the popular basketball return device that snaps on your rim…and kicks the ball back to the shooter. So now you know two things about me. One, I still shoot hoops. Two, I hate chasing the ball. I know I’m not alone on those counts. Maybe you'll like this too.

We want to share the fun of free throws with others. Here’s how. We’ve just created a new site named http://www.free-throw-shooter.com/ where you sign up for FREE. Enter a screen name, your hometown and age group. But, first shoot 50 free throws so you can report how many shots you “made”. That’s it. All you do is report how many you hit. We’ll post your result and see if you stay listed long enough (30 days) to earn an award. No, you don’t have to spend money to shoot hoops. We like it that way.

Of course, our basketball skill building products are displayed. There’s also a player video. But our site isn’t dependent on sales. We’re motivated otherwise…to evaluate public interest for our next venture. That will be Free-Throw-Survivor. It will be a more intense competition with strict rules and more rewards. All ages and skill levels will qualify. But, first things first!

Please visit http://www.free-throw-shooter.com/ and see what it’s all about. We welcome comments.

Smell The Grass

2009-07-09T13:43:00.000-07:00

I uncovered another revelation. As usual, it’s an obvious thought that’s already shared by hoards of other thinkers. I love to cut my own grass. So should every inventor.

A walk-behind power mower (like mine) offers exposure to mechanical wisdom. Sometimes it doesn’t want to run. Priming may be required. Oil and gas must be monitored. Is the air filter clean? Elevating four wheels can be an enlightening chore. No, it’s not “hi-tech”. But, we absorb a grateful understanding of how things work. We learn the necessity of attention, procedure and care. Yes, there are rewards in every task.

But that’s nothing compared to the benefits an inventor enjoys…after the motor starts.

Walking behind a self propelled mower offers a rare combination of solitude and satisfaction. Our thoughts can drift far outside the path of the power mower. Safety shrouds forgive innocent drifting into trees, hedges and sprinkler heads. Few of us attempt the quilted grass patterns seen on PGA fairways. We’re not pros. We simply follow alongside a previous wheel path. We welcome moments for our minds to wander. We have things to think about! That’s it. We love the chance for constructive dreaming - even when doing other stuff, like mowing the lawn.

Following the mower requires only casual concern. Cutting the grass is easy. It’s rewarding! The lawn will look lovely. Freshly severed blades of grass give an exhilarating aroma. Admiring our freshly cut lawn - we earn immediate gratification. Few accomplishments give such instant reward. Better yet, is our freedom to dream about bigger and bolder things – like our next “great idea”.

Behind a mower, the inventor plans designs, considers materials and replays packaging issues, without distraction. It’s better than the library. The drone of the mower deadens most interruptions. No-one dares distract the control of a mower in motion. Phone messages will wait. The world stands still.

Cutting the grass offers a fantastic opportunity. Ear buds are favored to silence interference. No music please! Creative minds like solitude. Thoughts thrive on such opportunity. There are random concerns to unravel and solutions must be discovered. Only great ideas are welcome to enter. It’s the perfect time and place for thinking. Just follow the mower!

Oh, I pity the people who have no lawn, no mower and miss the satisfaction we inventors enjoy. It bothers me that many creative women still resist the rewards of mowing. I continually offer my wife the opportunity, but she’s always thoughtful. She simply refuses to deprive me of the pleasure.

Patent Markings

2009-07-06T22:13:00.000-07:00

I stumbled on some scary news for inventors and entrepreneurs. This story has to do with patent lawsuits…with you as the possible accused. You better listen up!

The Associated Press disclosed a federal court ruling upholding the constitutionality of an age-old law allowing someone to sue companies – with evidence of “false markings” on products (namely, false claims… like expired or bogus patents).

Apparently, astute attorneys are seeking financial windfall from the forgotten laws regarding timely markings. Finding flaws, they can sue offenders in the name of the government and keep half of monies awarded. $500 per violation is reported. One particular attorney seems to be on a mission after nailing a company that was claiming protections… which expired some 20 years ago.

I guess you better be wary. Check your marking and update your patent numbers. Where there’s money to be made - you better believe some weasels will be lurking.

Keep It Quiet

2009-07-03T21:52:00.000-07:00

As a die-hard inventor, I love finding stories that confirm lessons preached by my mentors. Yes, you’ve heard it before -“Confidentiality Agreements are important!” But –Wait! (as Bill Mays would say).

We’ve been told certain rules to follow before disclosing particulars about our great ideas or other things. They warned us to be cautious about spilling too much information. And be careful who you talk to. Signed Agreements should be filed to assure responsible silence. But, do they work? How strong are they? Well, this story says they’re pretty damn good!

The Associated Press informed us that the former wife of a popular anti-wrinkle guru cannot publicly discuss their relationship. She had signed a Confidentiality Agreement.

The former husband wrote several best-sellers and offers skin care and dietary advice. Now, she was planning national television exposure which might harm his business interests. The courts said no way. She appealed, citing free speech. Still, the high court ruled unanimously that her First Amendment rights were waived by the Confidentiality Agreement. How about them apples!

I figured the signed papers had strength. Never did I dream - enough to quiet a spouse. Wow!
(You might consider copying and filing this post...as I did.)

Make My Day

2009-07-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

My wife gets mad when I fail to get up early. Too often, I have to stumble down the driveway to gather the morning paper…way before my preferred 10 am rise. She yells, “What will the neighbors think?”

I murmur my answer. But, if they wish…they can view my office window at 2:30 am to watch the lights finally go dim. I do my bookwork late. I read the newspaper late, too. Things are better that way.

The paper is purposely avoided until I’ve experienced momentum, accomplish some simple things and get the feeling that the rest of the day is worth living. But, Then I open the news. Depression sets in!

My daily struggle is no different than any other entrepreneur; trying to push a product, pay bills, keep customers happy and hopefully finish the day – gaining a dollar or two. I don’t think I ask much.

So, why would I want to start the day by reading such dribble as a councilwoman admitting to grabbing bribes in the thousands. As a wife of a congressman, no less – whose office pleads “this has been a trying time…” Get real!

The dirty money related to dealings with a $1.2 billion sludge disposal contact. Must be the cream was too tempting (others already pleaded guilty). Such flagrant abuse and available temptation scares me. My world deals with sport stores never paying invoices on time, while I have electric bills that won’t wait. Your story is probably similar. Hey lady, take a walk in our shoes!

Trying to escape such nonsense, I usually turn to the sports page. What there? More Insults!

An NBA player (from Turkey) is turning free agent after refusing a four- year $36 million contract extension for playing a game. He wants $50 million. That’s for putting a round ball in a bigger hole. Good grief!

Such abuse of financial reward is too much. Such greed sours me. Both stories drain any resemblance of incentive from the working class. It’s demeaning to anyone completing the simple, necessary and often thankless chores of every day. Why do others demand such indulgence?

Now you know why I prefer my sleep -and a tardy paper to read much later. And I’m not overly concerned about my neighbor’s thoughts. The truth? I simply want to delay ruining my day.

Ron Reardon Visits E.I.A.

2009-06-27T22:01:00.000-07:00

Each meeting of the Edison Investors Association we include an informative speaker who offers reference or assistance to the inventor community. Last meeting our special guest speaker was Ron Reardon, President of the United Inventors Association.

Ron came prepared to start by using slides for introducing himself, UIA officers and staff. He gave personal blips about each individual as though they were “family” . It was a clever method of bringing the upper crust of the business - down to a relaxed level we inventors would enjoy.
Ron also downplayed his own impressive credentials with stories of leaving the farm for college and stumbling into the “top gun” position at the U. I. A. But - you better believe, his success is no accident.

His presentation flew by with personal reference of his own inventor trials, and the sympathy he had for other frustrated inventors. He described U.I.A.’s update and positioning for the future. Its revamp (if you will), stressed responsibility regarding referenced sources, vendors and endorsements. A Certification Seal is now awarded by a UIA committee and controlled by U.I.A.

Ron knows an audience likes personal anecdotes of experiences and struggles to build kinship. It’s the stuff we like to hear! He’s one of us! After our meeting, we treated Ron to an ice cream sundae (diet sized) as he traded some secret stories with Cathy Solich (an E.I.A. board member and mother of twins).

I’ve attached a short video to show the man and his manner. It starts with a trick stolen from Ron. To endear the crowd, he snuck in pictures of his grandchildren (twins of one twin son). I’ve done the same - so you can OOOH and AHHH as we did. It’s the least I can do… for thanking Ron for coming to Ft. Myers (on his own nickel) and strengthening the understanding, relationship and respect we have for the U.I.A.

John Joseph Houghtaling

2009-06-21T13:27:00.000-07:00

I’ve noticed my reading habits have changed with age. Once upon a time, I thought the front page news deserved my attention. Later on, the sports page took over as the “first page” read. Lately I’ve been turning directly to the real estate section. I’ve been dreaming of a high-rise condo…or a beach-front cottage on the Gulf. Both remain fantasies of undeserved attention.

For facing the realities of today, I seek refuge in the obituaries. Yup, there is where you read about the “real world”.

Yesterday’s paper included a story about John Joseph Houghtaling. Know him? He died at 92. He had a home in Ft. Pierce, Florida. I’ve been there, and never knew anything about him. Damn it. I wish I had met him. He had a genuine claim to fame…as a successful inventor.

J.J. (I’ll call him that) was the guy who invented the “Magic Fingers Vibrating Bed”. It gave you fifteen minutes of “tingling relaxation and ease” – for only a quarter. Do you remember them? Those beds became a pop-culture icon in the 60s and 70s. You went to a motel, popped in a quarter and got instant relief. Today, that same feeling cost twenty bucks under a dark lamppost in some cities. But it may take less time. That’s just my guess!

Regardless, I’m glad I discovered the late tribute to the late J.J. and I’m sure his family is duly proud of him. I certainly am. You seldom read such accolades praising the little guy – the actual inventor. But better late than never.

It’s the little people (like J.J.) who stumble upon our simple pleasures of life. I’m glad to hear he retired while enjoying success. Even then, he continued inventing other coin operated stuff – like weight scales and pulse checking devices. I hope to be just like him…never giving up.

My opinion is…. I’ll probably never find that high-rise condo, or the beach cottage. Regarding other reading habits…Sport news seems stuck on salaries. And forget those front page headlines….that crap happens regardless of me.

But, I’ll keep my eye on the obits. I love to read about people who make a mark on the world (even if the news is late). You know, it still bothers me that John Joseph Houghtaling didn’t get to hear me sing his praise. He still deserves it. Thanks, J.J.!

Welcome To Inventor Videos

2009-03-10T19:00:00.000-07:00

I want to welcome all Inventors and Entrepreneurs - and anyone seeking product success.

Inventor Videos will give you information - short and entertaining. You'll get easy guidance, instruction and insight to the design, development, manufacturing and marketing of successful products. We intend to motivate & assist your profitable product pursuit by exposing ways, means and mistakes discovered the hard way (some stolen from my book). Here's a few topics of interest we'll cover...

Patents - Trademarks - Copyrights ...all the basics.
Rules - Tools - Guides...for product development.
Hints - Tricks - Horrors...promoting products to market.
How To Prepare...package - price - distribute a product.

You'll see methods of turning concepts into inventions and worthy products. You'll learn the easy way to push products and deal with the big boys. Plus you'll see discoveries from trade shows and other inventors.

Inventions - Innovations - Great Ideas (yours - ours - theirs)

Inventor Videos will encourage interest and support of entrepreneurial activity. We welcome ideas, topics and comments to help others. Please subscribe to get notice of new videos and our latest shared info. Thank you, Tom.

Credibility

2009-03-09T19:02:00.000-07:00

Stealing a tag line from realtors, all inventors must recognize the need for three things; credibility. credibility, credibility. Your product depends on it.

Who you trust, who you depend on and who you pay; for assistance, expertise and representation is absolutely critical to your product - and probably your health and well-being. The assistance you “rely on” for production, distribution and marketing - can make you or break you.

You have to couple with those wanting to “make it happen” You need others who actually “care” about your product…your success.You'll be building a team. You’ll want some resemblance of ambition, expertise and persistence to help you - to lessen your load and provide some answers for the task at hand. You'll need help that’s competent and credible.

Credibility is not measured by the framed documents on somebody’s wall. Nor is it guaranteed by historical accomplishments or the repeated promises and praises of present abilities. Credibility is measured by “what have you done for me lately”.

You'll want someone showing you a list of appointments, luncheons, phone contacts and other efforts in your behalf. You want to see some efforts of “product Push”. It should be evident in all phases of manufacturing, distribution and sales. A credible helper should be bragging about the “team” support and “team” progress. That’s your team!

The best way to check credibility is from “one on one” conversations with others, in the same boat as you. Get the goods from other inventor club members. They’ve learned who to trust - who’s helpful - and who delivers. They’ll also recall personal encounters, satisfactions and accomplishments. They’ll also spill the beans on frustrating short comings , disappointing results or any of those flimflammers. Yes, Flimflammers!

By paying cash “up-front” any weasel can buy a most impressive, glossy advertisement for bragging all about their resources, abilities and performance. Don’t you dare “pay up front”. Don’t risk your money on a bogus deal - that can leave you “high and dry”. Your money will be gone. And you’ll have no help.

Avoid this disaster! Obtain references from living, breathing and satisfied customers. A credible source (factory, distributor or marketer) will gladly comply with a client list. If not, walk away! But when they do comply - call those clients. Get the scoop on how well they performed for someone else. Those folks needed help, just like you. Was it worth it?

This may sound like a callous approach to finding friendly assistance, but “business is business.” That’s exactly what you’re getting into - the business of Product Pursuit.

It’s no longer all fun and games of fiddling with a great idea. Now you’re dealing “hard cash”, and you expect results for your invested money, your efforts and your anguish.

Forget all the “love” and “praises” of your product - and the fantasy that it will happen overnight.This is strictly business. And any successful business has a habit of relying on - what? Do you remember what we’re talking about? Credibility!

Flimflammers

2009-03-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

Do you know any Flimflammers? I hope not!

By paying cash “up-front” any weasel can buy a most impressive, glossy advertisement to brag all about their resources, abilities and performance.

Don’t be fooled. Don’t you dare “pay up front”. Don’t you risk your money on a bogus deal that can leave you “high and dry” with money gone -and no help. Always get references from living, breathing, satisfied customers.

Any businessman (factory, distributor, whatever) should supply a client list. If not, walk away!

But when they do give a list, you must call those clients. Get the scoop on actual performance. Were they worth it? You know your going to pay. Wouldn’t it be nice to get some results for your money, your efforts and your anguish?

Like it or not, you’re entering “business”. You’re in the business of Product Pursuit. And any successful business has a habit of relying on ….what? Do you remember? Well, what are we always talking about? Yup! Credibility!

You’ll be hearing more about credibility - or the lack of it, several times in future horror stories. It seems we met our share of fimflammers and weasels. You’ll see!

It Can Happen To You

2009-03-07T19:04:00.000-08:00

Like a lot of you, I had a hare-brained idea. It haunted me for years.

Then I found myself “out of work” - with lots of time, lots of energy and just a little money (like other folks today). I can’t believe I was so stupid - to think my “Great Idea” could be a successful product. But it happened! And I know ...it can happen to you.

Want proof! Just take a look at my Ballback Basketball Return. It hangs on rims in every neighborhood. It kicks the basketball back to the player.

You’ve seen it in Wal-Mart, Kmart and Target. Orange, yellow – any color. Ballback went world-wide - made it “big time”. You know the old cliché ...“If I can do it - so can you."Well, here I am... living proof, and I’m telling you, “It can happen to you.”

But, there are some things you gotta do.

First: You’ll need the “dream “. We all have one secret, one great idea. Keeping that dream alive requires drive, persistence and some “get up and go”. You’ll need some help from inventor friends – who’ve been there, done that. Inventor friends supply stimulation. They keep your fire alive. They keep your inventive juices flowing. Sometime you just need a shot of giddy-up. We all do!

Where do you find inventor friends? My home state of Florida leads the country with active Inventor Groups. Ft. Myers has the Edison Inventors Association. The United Inventors Association will identify other clubs. And the Inventors Digest magazine prints a whole list of clubs by state and city.

Most clubs have links to other inventor sources and friendly helpers. All you have to do is visit one meeting. You’ll join!

You’ll see some of my inventor friends and their products at one of my favorite places…www.InventorCart.com My next video will tell you the second thing you’ll have to do - to help your product become a “money-maker”. Don’t miss it. It can happen to you!

Qualify Your Product

2009-03-06T19:05:00.000-08:00

Earlier - we talked of keeping your dream, your “Great Idea” alive.We said you should network with valuable inventor friends. But, I warned you then…there may be more.

Yes! Unfortunately….. You must “Prove” you product is worth the effort. Come on! Does your dream “really” have merit? Or is it a waste of time? I don’t want you spinning your wheels with a dead duck of an idea. And please, don’t fall in love with your product….be objective.

You know, it’s smarter to focus your time, energy and investment wisely, on only a “Qualified” Product. A qualified product is one with proper chances of “MAKING IT HAPPEN”.

To “qualify” it, you need to know three (3) things about your product. Okay, maybe more…..but let’s go with 3.

The three things you need to know about your product…(tattoo them in a safe place).

1. How worthy is your product? Is your product unique….or better than others? Is there a market for it? How Big? How profitable? How receptive? (that’s one down).

2. How will your product generate profit? Profit is more than a formula. It’s much more than subtracting expenses from sales. It’s the reward, the mighty reward that motivates and pushes your product…and your helpers. You must have proper profits!

3. How is your product going to reach the shelf? That’s where you’ll be rewarded. Sales and profits depend on the shelf. “If it ain’t on the shelf… it ain’t going to sell.” You’ve got to get there. Have you ever felt that the best product (the very best product) wasn’t really on the shelf? Well, if you did, you’re wrong. Because, I’m telling you - the one “on the shelf” is the very best product. No doubt about it. That’s what it’s all about, Alfie

See! 1-2-3- already, you know how to fulfill your dreams and how to end up with a moneymaking product. Don’t laugh! I know it can happen to you. Just keep that dream alive. But, be sure your product is “ready” for success. Is it worthy? Is it qualified for the shelf?

You"ll Love This Book

2009-03-05T19:07:00.000-08:00

Our original book - Inventor in Paradise – has been re-published under a new title: Inventor Hints, Tricks & Horrors. Now it's available in a more affordable...easy to download...pdf format.

Two pdf versions are available.

One version scrolls with two pages wide for easy reading...just like a book...and it's great for PC viewing. Another version scrolls at one page wide...better for small screens like hand held readers.
Both versions are still 294 pages of information to help your product pursuit.

Books are delivered as pdf attachments to your email...zipped safe. Either way only $7.95

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The book is all about our pursuit of successful products. You’ll see we faced the same battles awaiting you. You’ll witness how to properly qualify your ideas, inventions and products…to prove they are worth your dedicated pursuit. And that’s what it will take; dedication and persistence. So, don’t waste your time, your efforts or your money... on a "dead duck" of an idea. Be sure your idea is worthy. There are things ever inventor must know.
How your ideas become worthy.
How your products make profits.
How you can reach the shelf.
Where you can find help.

This book helps you discover the answers.
You’ll get the 8 basic eight rules for every inventor. You’ll learn the ABC’s of product evaluation (how to package, produce and price your products). We cover Patents, Trademarks and Confidentiality Agreements. But, we present things within the reality of today...as they happened with us.

Your going to witness the evolution of our product line. How we capitalize on the advantage of learned lessons, friendly contacts and deals that opened doors. You know nothing sells without being on a shelf (whether a wooden slab, a catalog page or an infomercial). They all do the same thing. They put your product in front of a buyer. Your product MUST get to some kind of shelf. We suggest an easier way to win that location.

But, there’s always one big problem. You must first prove that your product belongs on the shelf. Does it deserve the spot – over others? Is there a need, desire, profit and motivation embedded in your product? Certain things make your product the “winner”.

We chased that same dream others have…the dream of product success. We tasted the glory. And we felt the pain. We learned the ins and outs of market pursuit, inventor rules and product protections. You’ll see how we found marketing partners, friendly factories and formulas for figuring our actual unit cost and pricing. You’ll decide if off-shore is the best place to go.

This book tells inventor hints, sneaky tricks and horror stories to guide your product progress – your success. Our tales offer revelations and confessions of how it’s done – how you can “make it happen”. This book will enlighten you to an easier way for finding product success.

You’ll see how we beat the bumps and the roadblocks while pushing our products to market. You’ll follow our products from concept to prototyping… to packaging…to getting them to that shelf. We battle the same problems as other inventors - trying to find the right materials, the factories and the distributors. And yes, we met product promoters, flimflammers and some corporate scoundrels. You’ll see!

Through it all, we remained persistent, confident and objective. Why? How? Because we had faith in the time tested criteria we used for properly evaluating our products . We proved they were worthy. We had networking helpers sharing the profits. We followed the rules. Credible product evaluation was sought (not friendly opinions). Materials were tested as suggestion of reputable suppliers. Factories were visited, interviewed, and evaluated (for present projects and future reference). And proper pricing was in place for profiting everyone involved.

So, That’s what is in this great pdf format book. It’s our story (294 pages) of getting products to the shelf, personal insights and reference to some friends. Our experience is all we have. It’s what we offer…and we know Inventor Hints, Tricks & Horrors will help your success with product pursuit. Enjoy1 Thank you, Tom.

When ordering, make sure Paypal has your current email address for rapid (zip safe) delivery.
Select the version you want...
double wide or single page.

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Milk Your Niche

2009-03-04T19:08:00.000-08:00

I want you to “Milk your Niche”.

Your “niche “is the “place” your product belongs. It’s where yourcustomer shops. You’ve gotta know your niche.Who comes to your Niche?

What’s their age…their sex? How much do they spend? What prices do they favor? You must Qualify your product for “fitting” your niche.

Your product must be worthy of this spot, this niche. Can it survive? Will it sell?“Displaying” your product is one thing - selling it is another. You want a perfect “fit” from the get go. A slow mover in any niche….just won’t survive.

Our “Ballback” basketball return stumbled into a perfect market niche - aimed right at our most likely customer.

The product is low-tech….(maybe no-tech)…consumer affordable andkind of fun. It’s attractive to any sport fan, but mostly those shooting hoops. You know, those alone in their own driveway. Have you noticed, there are a lot of driveways? We did, and we went after them.

We focused on feeding the same market….the same retailers….the same consumers.

We milked our niche!

My book tells tales of pursuing our niche with our Fab Five sport products. I want you to find your niche….and “milk it”… the same way.

Protective Devices

2009-03-03T19:09:00.000-08:00

I counted nine “protective devices” that some people presume are automatic defenders. But, oh no! Theses “defenses” will still require your continued attention.

Let’s count off the 9 “Protective Devices”

Number 1. The Inventors Logbook. It is used to diligently document dates, discoveries and ideas in a solidly bound book …to capture ideas…and have them witnessed.

Number 2. Trade Secrets are often claimed by employers wanting to guarantee a “hush-hush” policy among workers, or former employees who must “keep quiet” about tricks of the trade.

Number 3. Confidentiality Agreements or Non-disclosure Agreements are used by inventors seeking quotes for prototyping or manufacturing. You’ve got things to talk about… confidentially.

Number 4. Copyrights cover original works of authorship: of music and literature. They’re cheap, easy and will live longer than you.

Number 5. A Trademark is a symbol, word or design you have designated to identify your product from others. Look for a small tm.

Number 6. Provisional Patents act as a temporary 1 year stepping stone - of extended “protection” for developing your product and preparing it for the next step… a utility patent.

Number 7. Utility Patents are more detailed, more costly and can last 20 years. They define the function and uniqueness of the invention. This is the big one…wait till you hear what it cost.

Number 8. Design Patents last 14 years and deal with ornamentation (or the appearance) you want to claim and restrain from others.

Number 9. Plant Patents cover asexually reproductive plants..those evolving from grafts and cutting. Some folks like to discover new flowers - and document their creations. I know very little about them except that the up-front fees for filing, searching and examining will cost you $360 and the Plant Patent issue fee will be $595. Don’t ask me anything more about Plant Patents.

Future Inventor Videos …will tell where, when and how these “protective measures” become useful to you.

Logbook - Rules

2009-03-02T19:10:00.000-08:00

Let’s talk about your logbook.

As mentioned before, Inventors use a Logbook to document dates, discoveries and ideas. We do it to record evidence of our initial thought and their progress through the inventive process. “Grab it – or forget it!” Or is that just me?

Your log book can become your memory board and a daily diary. Some entries might just grasp an idea today – for later. Future pages will chase it down – with details and descriptions. Pages may end up showing the whole evolution of a possible product.

The time and dates of entries become your evidence of your attentiveness and continuous pursuit. That’s important! And there are some other rules to follow. Yes, when aren’t there rules!

First, the book itself must be stitched bound, or built so no pages can be inserted or substituted. This supplies integrity - it can’t be tampered with.

I like to use spiral bound school notebooks. Still, you should number every page…date each entry…so your story line unfolds in timely manner. Use ink, sensible sentences, drawings and full explanation. The intent is to inform your reader, your witness or your lawyer to fully understand your idea – at least as much as you do.

It’s very likely that someday you’ll scan the pages for a forgotten idea - or something that piques your interest all over again. Give yourself a chance to stumble on it - plain as day – just waiting for you… right there in your inventor Logbook.

We’ll discuss disclosing your logbook to others in another tip.That’s when the rules of the logbook will come into play.

Logbook - Benefits

2009-03-01T19:11:00.000-08:00

Last time - We talked about Logbook RULES….there are also logbook BENEFITS.

Sometime, you’ll want to bounce some ideas off a friend. See what they think. This is when the rules of the logbook come into play and you benefit from detailed entries.

You might prefer having lunch with a fellow inventor and your logbook….to discuss your idea and get them to sign as a witness. A lunch setting is more relaxed than facing an office desk. Everyone’s more comfortable. Comments, suggestions and criticisms are easier to swallow between bites.

Your friend must comprehend your idea (that’s required). Only then should they sign and date as legal and supportive witness. This is serious business. They’re giving testimony that they clearly understand your idea on this date. I hope they never have to testify, but logbooks and witnesses are accepted ammunition in legal battles and court room proceeding. It does happen!

Your logbook kept tabs on who you talked to, where you went and what was discussed. It better show variations of your product…any possible improvements...and optional features. Cover all the bases…so any listener (like a strange business associate) doesn’t start thinking about their own version.

You might even ask them to sign a page. It’s not every day someone is asked to witness a real invention. They might be thrilled to sign & date. They’ll certainly remember it and be well aware that you have proof they were informed – where and when.Now, aren’t you glad you made nice, clear, comprehensive entries! That’s the benefit of having a logbook.

Trade Secrets

2009-02-28T19:12:00.000-08:00

Employers have their people sign papers promising to keep Trade Secrets …secret. They can’t blab about recipes, formulas or business techniques…not even after being fired.

Kentucky Fried chicken has their 11 herbs and spices under lock and key. Breweries don’t want their blends of barley and hops floating around.

And my wife simply warms up delicious Chip Ahoy chocolate chip cookies in the oven till they’re nice and warm (then she hides the bag). I’m not supposed to talk about it. But, that’s not a real trade secret, like the others.

Serious Trade Secrets better remain that way. One company might sue another to recover lost revenues. Jail time can face the employee who sold company secrets.

Don’t be bragging about your cut-rate material suppliers, special formulations and critical manufacturing techniques. No! You should classify them as trade secrets. They’re assets adding value to your product, your business and your reputation.

Your attorney will love to add them to any contact, license agreement of business sale….same as any other intellectual properties. You’ll be happy you kept those secrets.

Just wait till my wife hears about the cookies!

Confidentiality - Distant

2009-02-27T19:13:00.000-08:00

Confidentiality Agreements (or Non-Disclosure Agreements) were number 3 of our 9 protective devices and are more adaptable for folks you want to work with. They may have more secrets than you.

Think of Prototype people, molders, machinist or corporations you’d like to impress -with a new product. It’s nice if you already know their reputation, honesty and integrity. But, thanks to the world-wide web you’ll also solicit strangers.

To get their help they’ll have to know about you, and all about your product. Now, remember -ideas are seldom stolen. Proven products are much preferred. Why bother with an untested idea- when they can copy a proven hot product that’s flying off the shelf? Get over It! Get moving on your idea.

Dealing at a distance, your initial inquiry can describe the type of assistance your seeking with limited disclosure of your invention or product (just enough to assure they avoid any conflict with another products or customers). You want their full attention, without any concern over another product or client.

Suggest you’ll submit a signed confidential agreement (theirs or yours) for mutual agreement. Allow full disclosure of pertinent information between you both.

Don’t make it all about you…or your invention. They have secrets too. Let them know you need to pump them - for everything else they can do (their abilities and limitations). You need that info for future plans and products that will need help too.

You both should seek a lasting relation. Tell them bluntly, that you prefer to deal (and return) to familiar, comfortable sources whenever possible. They’ll get your drift. And if they want your business - if they favor attitude and appreciation papers will be signed.

But if they seem uncomfortable, then so should you. But, don’t stomp away all upset. Always remain cordial enough to keep doors open. You may have need for back-up suppliers or assistance beyond the abilities of the favored choice you finally discover. Your customers don’t want to hear relayed business problems or excuses regarding delivery delays. You must qualify competent sources through confidence...often supported by confidential information.

Our next tip will show dealing face to face during such interviews is easier. And submitting your Confidentiality Agreement will be easier too. You’ll see why in my next Inventor Videos tip.

Confidentiality - Local

2009-02-26T19:14:00.000-08:00

Here’s another tip on confidential agreements – now we’re talking about dealing with local folks.

Earlier we discussed the pleasantries (lets call them that) of dealing at a distance for finding a comfortable relation with future promise and disclosure of abilities - both ways. Dealing across the table with a possible supplier, manufacturer or other helper is much the same.

Remember that major point we covered? Qualify them as likely candidates without spilling specifics of your product. Just give enough to make certain they have no conflict with similar products or other customers. Then schedule a sit-down for face to face conversation. I prefer to trust my gut evaluation of the people I’m looking at - regardless of threatening, long winded paperwork. Their body language can reveal a lot of truth. Sometimes you get really good vibes - sometimes not so good.

For these personal meetings my simple Confidentiality Format is fine. It simply states that two parties (fill in the blanks) agree to discuss issues concerning my product. Both parties agree to confidential status of all proprietary information shared by either party. That’s it! Nothing else needs to be written. We’ll agree to honor each other’s business and each other’s word -or not.

Before my meeting I sign and date two copies - and slide them over with a brief explanation such as: “I’m here because I need help and I feel we’ll both want to talk freely, maybe about sensitive stuff. I’ve already signed this code of silence for your files and mine. ” Their name or the company is also typed, with a solid bold line for a signature. I don’t bother to ask. I just slide it over. They’ll either sign or they won’t.

Confidentiality should be a two way street. You both have secrets. And you need to share info to benefit each other. Give them the opportunity to respond favorably. Your simple unintimidating Agreement can quickly give a clue as to how your meeting will go - and whether you even want to be there - much less risk an extended relationship.

Even an interview with an unfamiliar inventor (one seeking help for his precious Great Idea) can benefit from a similar two-way Confidentiality Agreement. Hell, my secrets are just as important as his - maybe more. So, it works both ways. Each of us will keep our mouths shut. Sometimes this type of Confidential Agreements even works with those hyper-sensitive novice inventors. You know, the ones that don’t even trust their mother.

Copyrights

2009-02-25T19:15:00.000-08:00

Copyrights offer “protection” for creators of “original works of authorship” – including literary, musical, dramatical, and certain other intellectual works. Those certain other intellectual works are of interest to inventors - because they include game rules, instructions, artwork and other appearance features of products and packaging.

You can announce your notice of copyright by simply following proper marking procedures.No other forms or registration is really required. It’s really simple.

Protection “automatically” begins upon creation of the work, and will last for the lifetime of the author – plus 70 years after death. Now that’s longevity of protection. But, it’s still prudent to establish a “public record” with a Certificate of Registration from the Library of Congress. Not the USPTO. The Library of Congress – specifically, the Register of Copyrights. Go to: http://www.copyright.gov/.

I registered my book copyright (as noted inside, with the circled C) It cost me $45to register. Nearly anything we print we add a copyright warning, even our display cards. All our pictures, instructions and authored materials are covered by copyright.

We’ve discovered some people don’t think so. We still find our pictures, and instructions used by Spalding and Russell Corporation – and they stopped paying us some time ago.

Sure, you’ve heard some of the story. They eagerly signed our Marketing Agreement and agreed to payment terms. But, they changed their mind about paying me the “inventor residual”. They wanted it all, and sly attorneys found a “legal” way out of paying me. You might call that smart, or maybe you’ll smell a hint of excessive greed.

Man, there’s a real horror story every inventor should hear. I plan to tell it. Maybe it will get noticed by Warren Buffett or one of his underlings. I still wonder if those attorneys know anything about copyright laws.

Trademarks

2009-02-24T19:16:00.000-08:00

For an inventor a trademark is usually a word, symbol or design that identifies his product from others. But, trademarks can also be colors, smells and sounds. Owning the trademark, you can keep others from using the particular identification you’ve assumed.

You can claim ownership of a trademark by adding the familiar, small “tm” symbol near your chosen mark or word. And you can register it with the USPTO, getting publication in the “Official Gazette”.

Last time I looked, a trademark cost $325. Without opposition, the PTO will issue a certificate in about 12 weeks. . Then you can use the circled R, legally replacing the former tm mark. It can still be contested, for five years. After that, it’s all yours.

Duplicates of Trademarks do happen! The USPTO allows the same mark for “different” situations. My friend Marshajene sells her tiered in-line baby buggy under the trademark name “double-decker”. Yes, “double-decker”- the same sandwich name used by Taco Bell. But they don’t make baby buggies. That must be the difference.

Just for the heck of it, upon planning this topic I went to the USPTO and searched the two word phrase “Double Decker”. I got 46 “hits”. Some were “dead” listings. Others had extra words added - Like “Double Decker Tours”. They don’t count. But, a total of 12 were using the same two words – Double Decker. Sometimes there was special script, or an illustration along with the words.

I’m still really baffled by these two I located. Taco Bell in Irvine California wanted the trademark for sandwiches eaten on or off their premises . And a Chattanooga Tennessee bakery wanted the same words for marshmallow sandwiches. They seem similar, but probably they taste different.

You see, there really are interesting things you can discover with a Trademark search. Soon, you’ll get a real horror story about not properly searching for registered trademarks.

Trademark Horror Story

2009-02-23T19:17:00.000-08:00

I have a Horror Story for you about Trademarks.

Ballback was the perfect name for my basketball return device. It hangs on the basketball rim and kicks the ball back to the shooter. Here’s the horror story!

One day my neighbor came storming to my house with a copy of Golf Digest Magazine. It had a pictured ad of an extendable golf ball retriever called “Ballback”. It looked something like a telescopic spoon – stretching to grab a sunken golf ball, but it sure as hell didn’t kick basketballs back. I called the Texas firm, and spoke with the owner, telling how I had registered that trademark Ballback, years ago. He knew we dealt with the same industry of sport stores – and sport accessories. He agreed there were chances of mass confusion.

But he wasn’t mad at me. He was furious with his attorney…The attorney didn’t discover the existing trademark ownership. It was public information at the USPTO for years. The man had to change his logo, his letterheads, his advertizing and anything else.

He sent me some stationery, with new logo and a nice apology. You know, I felt sorry for the guy, But, like I say all the time - only you (the inventor) are the only one keeping a keen eye on everything about your product. You can’t even rely on an attorney. You know, they really are human. They do make mistakes.

To their benefit, attorneys will usually squeeze all they can from every copyright, trademark and patent you process. Contracts, License Agreements and Business sales will brag thoroughly about the value of these assets. You know they really can be considered an investment - well worth having. I mean the intellectual properties - not the attorneys.

I’m still wondering about those weasels messing with my copyrights. You think about it too.

Utility Patent Cost

2009-02-22T19:18:00.000-08:00

A Utility Patent cost a lot more than most novice inventors think. Many worry only about the feared expense of patent attorneys. The legal beagles will charge big bucks to do patent searches, write patent application and submit confusing sentences to the patent office.

The USPTO will require a “uniqueness of function” in the patent claims, a proper history, and patent drawings to describe it all. Many inventors are ill-prepared for that. More inventors fear the additional expense of legal assistance and patent drawing charges. Some seek methods to lower their burden. They read self-help books on how to patent their idea. Some try to submit their own illustrations. Still, few are really prepared for the shocking cost of the unavoidable filing charges and maintenance fees of a Utility Patent.

Today, your filing fee, search and issue fee for a Utility Patent Application will total $545. You pay that “up front”. The Issue Fee and Publication Fee for the issued Utility Patent will add to $1055 more. You’ve now spent $1600 and you’ve just started the journey. Utility Patents require your payment of Maintenance Fees. These are due at intervals, with the burden increasing with time.

The patent’s 3 ½ year anniversary fee is $490.
The 7 ½ year anniversary fee is $1240.
The 11 ½ year maintenance fee is $2055.
Those three fees total $3785.

Your grand total of filing charges ($1600) and maintenance fees ($3785) will be a whopping $5385. You can’t avoid it! It makes no difference whether you’re patenting a PC or a toothpick. This $5385 has little to do with the definition or complications of your invention. This is the basic fee - let’s call it “Clerical Cost”. Everything else will cost more…much more. Think of Attorney fees for Office Actions, Reponses and Amendments. Ouch!

Want more bad news? Do you remember what a Utility Patent actually does? It gives you the right – (yes, just the right)- to pursue litigation against others (the infringers). Of course, to exercise this right - you’ll be paying legal beagles a lot more money.

Were you thinking the life of an inventor/entrepreneur was easy? Did you think we just dreamt ideas and “presto” there were money making products on the shelf? Hold On! Things get worse. You can lose that patent. Yup! After paying all those fees you can still lose that patent… all by yourself. That’s the topic of our next Inventor Video. See you soon!

How To Lose Your Patent

2009-02-21T19:19:00.000-08:00

Guess what! You can lose your utility patent all by yourself.You feared flimflammers, scammers, and phony promoters. Now you may have yourself to blame - for throwing your money away.

Remember the expenses of patent application (at the Patent Office):
The Fiing Fee..... the Search.....the Examination fee....
Then you faced years of maintenance fee payments. And probably Attorney fees and drafting charges.

Well, after all that effort and money spent for security and lasting protection…

You can still lose it all.

You can lose your utility patent (or any litigation) if….

Maintenance fees aren’t paid.
Your patent fails to teach, describe or claim properly.
Prior art proves your idea wasn’t new.
You engaged in any illegal activity connected to the patent.
You committed any fraud against the U.S.P.T.O.

Now you’ve learned two things about Utility patents.

1. They cost a lot. 2. They're easy to lose.

You’re also going to learn they don’t really offer any great protection (not by themselves).

Sad, but true. The next video will explain. See you soon! Tom.

Do Patents Help

2009-02-19T19:20:00.000-08:00

The United States Patent Office (and the issued patents themselves) were intended to provide an environment that encouraged ideas and products beneficial to mankind.

That was the original idea. It wasn’t meant for hiding unattended secret ideas in a closet. And Patents don’t really protect anything.

Patents are meant to provide a means whereby creative ideas can be developed with less fear of unfair interference from others. Issued patents award you the Right to pursue litigation against the offenders. It’s your burden (or your attorneys) to battle the opposition. It’s up to you to protect yourself.

David Pressman wrote a great big book called Patent It Yourself – which explains things about patents in an easy to follow manner. He agrees that patents aren’t for protection. He says patents provide “offensive rights” for the holder to defend themselves. He says that you must go on the “offense”.

As a patent holder you will pay for the privilege of any mentioned advantageous environment .You probably recall those maintenance fees that escalate in time (3 ½, 7 ½ and 11 ½ year anniversaries). The expense increase in time… as your product and profits grow.

Patents provide encouragement of product pursuit. You should be diligently displaying activity for conclusion of your product’s journey…to make it all happen. I’m warning you, litigation often favors those proving “activity of Pursuit”. Many of us think it’s for good reason. So stay busy. If not, you may be wasting your money.

Design Patents

2009-02-18T19:20:00.000-08:00

Who says Design Patents ar no good? I say, Design patents don’t get the respect they deserve. Many folks frown on filing for rights to protect only an “ornamentation”. I argue they’re wrong and missing the boat. Design patents offer a lot:

They can imply your competent product pursuit.
They can imply value to your idea.
They allow your marking of “Reg. U.S. Pat”.
They can imply legal consequence to violators.

Design patents are easier to get than the Utility patent. You only submit a defining drawing, or representation along with the affordable up-front fee to the United States Patent Office. With proper pre-search, a Design Patent application is highly likely to issue. It has these favorable features:

$230 total for filing, search and examination.
Likely issue fee of $430.
The Design Patent will last 14 years.
No maintenance fees (Unlike the Utility Paten).
Covers “appearance” or “Ornamentation” (not “function”)

The “look” of you product can be important – worth protecting. Believe me, your attorney will love every intellectual property he can brag about while structuring your license agreement. Cheaper than a Utility Patent, the Design Patent can be a great investment.

Sometimes it’s hard to defeat prior art while seeking a Utility patent. Other times, an examiner might argue your claims as “obvious”. Both cases may result in denial of a Utility Patent. Even so, you can still file for a Design Patent. I’ve done it. Maybe you should too. You’ll hear why in the future Inventor Videos.

Extra Patents

2009-02-16T19:21:00.000-08:00

As mentioned in the last post, I’ve had occasion to get extra patents. If possible, I apply for both a Utility Patent and a Design Patent. I want my invention (my product) covered both ways. I want rights for protecting the product’s function…and its appearance. Why not? They’re both valuable.

Besides providing fodder for profitable Licensing Agreements, the extra patent coverage gives your product (and you) more credibility. Buyers and licensees are impressed with documentation of any protections involved.

A smart inventor stays ahead of the competition (the copycats) and snoopers - looking for a “knock-off” product. You can’t afford to sit on a growing success. A good selling product is bait for lurking predators. While you’re counting profits, they’re thinking of ways to get in on it.

Knowing our Utility Patent would soon expire, we designed a new basketball return device called the Ballback Pro. The U.S.P.T.O. awarded us a new Utility Patent based on function and performance. Then we were issued a Design Patent based on its unique design and appearance. Respectively, that’s coverage for 20 and 14 more years. You should be planning ahead, too!

You should consider patent expenses (and other intellectual properties) as business investments. They are definite assets when (and if) you’re marketing, manufacturing or licensing a product. Quite frankly, if you’re not displaying such activity of pursuit -I might argue otherwise. Remember what we said about patents and their “protection” benefit. Courts favor folks displaying active pursuit.

Next we’ll cover Provisional Patents and how the help in the early stages of product pursuit.

Provisional Patents

2009-02-15T19:22:00.000-08:00

The Provisional Patent was initiated in 1995 in answer to the foreign patent policy of “first person to file” versus our “first inventor” recognition. There are arguments for and against both. I’ll stay with what I know for now.

The Provisional Patent is like a stepping stone for preparation and evaluation before filing for a Utility Patent. The Utility will be more rigorous and expensive. The provisional gives you time to decide. And it doesn’t demand much effort or expense:

Provisional Patents are not examined.
You supply Title and Description.
Current filing fee is $110.
It’s good for one year (pat. Pend)

Yup, even unexamined you get one year of “confidential coverage” and can claim a patent pending status while evaluating the future. It often gives you more confidence for disclosing stuff when seeking manufacturing and markets. It affords a great opportunity for checking the worthiness of your product. In theory you’ll have a year to decide - whether to seek the expensive Utility Patent. But I warn you, that year can shrink fast, so plan accordingly to get full benefit.

If you do continue with a Utility Patent, it can benefit by back-dating to the filing date of the provisional. The Utility still extends 20 years from its own filing date. But, in theory only do you can get a n extra full year. Your papers should be submitted prior to due dates.

I advise searches, history and description preparation when considering the provisional. Yes, treat it just like a planned utility application. No, it’s not required. But, it’s good schooling for what lies ahead. The effort will help your prepare for filing the Utility. At least - during your diligent searches - you’ll discover what else is out there, already patented. You’ll get a better idea of your chances. Now, that’s smart!

Small Rod - Big Fish

2009-02-14T19:23:00.000-08:00

Inventor Videos intends to focus on instruction, guidance and assistance to inventors and entrepreneurs. That's our goal!

But, sometimes we have to chill, take a break and just enjoy things and people around us. So, our videos will include a category of random films labeled "Potpourri". They'll offer diversions of events, people and places, but stay relevent to our inventive community. Maybe they'll brighten you day. Here's a sample.

My buddy, Mel Larsen is a fellow member of the Edidon Inventors Association and often shares stories of his hand-carved pool cue cases. They're shaped like sharks - with real teeth - and travel the world meeting celebrities. Besides present fame, Mel is pursuing a world record fishing trophy. Sometimes he screws up - catches the wrong fish. You'll see!

Golf Gimmick Video

2009-02-12T19:25:00.000-08:00

Here are two examples of adapting videos to present your product to different audiences.First you’ll see my “original” clip that appeared on You Tube under my channel "Inventor Videos". This video was part of a series of instructional/informative entries to assist other inventors and entrepreneurs...my targeted audience in this case.

The second Video describes the same product, but in a different manner. This version may appear more viewer friendly (with some humor)- but still informative. It was intended to encourage sales of the item – rather than dwelling on the invention process. Notice how this video is flavored to entertain a more "public" audience...a new target. Following the video is a paragraph from its presentation on a dedicated web site http://www.puttingtuner.com/ (where you’ll find further description of the product).

"You'll love this video! It's about helping your golf game. Forget boring putting drills and endless pro putting tips. Putting practice has never been such fun. As usual, the simplest tool seems to do the best job. Putting Tuner teaches you to stroke firmly, with on-line accuracy to lower your score and put fun back in your game. Are you ready to brag about "putting out" with no yips or gimmies? Get ready to putt like a pro! "

For purchase now... visit Putt Like A Pro.