What should I do first - Patent or NDA?

[martinj]

Hi,

I have an idea for a product, but don't know whether i should apply for a patent before speaking to potential investors.

Since I have no money to actually invest in the idea, should I consider first writing an NDA in order to discuss with other people (eg engineers with expertise in the required field) prior to registering for a patent?

Without a patent being submitted first, would a NDA protect my idea from infringement?

How long does it normally take to get a patent, and how much does it cost?

My idea has international scope and therefore should I apply for an International patent from the outset?

To get a US patent, does the individual/company need to be a US resident?

Sorry for so many (probably basic) questions.

Thanks for your advice

 

[T-DESIGNER]

I am not an attorney, but I do not think you can patent
an idea; i.e., a patent consists of specific details relating to
the design, components, purpose, and claims of the
patent/invention. For example, I cannot patent the idea
of a flying car; however, I can patent the design/components/
etc of a specific flying car. Such a patent would not prevent
another patent from being developed; provided the design
of the next patent is not too similar and does not appear to
be a modified design of any other flying car patents.

Before you attempt to approach someone with your idea,
you should visit the USPTO web site and see if someone
already has a patent, which may have never made it to
the market place or is currently under review. The USPTO
web site may also cover patent filing fees, etc.

http://www.uspto.gov/

Your next step is to visit an attorney and/or vist your
local library/bookstore/website and find books on
patents and/or nondisclosure agreements. You might
also do a search on this message board.

I am unable to answer your questions concerning citizenship
requirements concerning US and international patents.