Change the world, one idea at a time

MCG — Some of the best inventions were created by accident. From Galileo’s first thermometer to Alexander Graham Bell’s famous call to his assistant, “Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you,” which signaled the birth of the telephone, everyone has thought of an invention that could change the world whether it be an accident, a school project or a dream.

What’s your great idea? If you’re ready to turn your dream into a reality, here are some tips, courtesy of the United Inventors Association, to help get you started:

1. Search patents by contacting the United States Patent and Trademark Office. You will be able to see nearly all the patents that have been issued in the United States. Just because you haven’t seen an invention doesn’t mean it hasn’t been patented.

2. Never respond to an ad from a company that claims it will introduce your invention idea to the industry. It will likely do nothing for you and only wants your money. If you are unsure if the company is legitimate, ask for the names and phone numbers of inventors who have used the company. If employees say the list is confidential, it’s time to go elsewhere.

3. Read extensively about new products. Visit stores, scan catalogs, hit the library or bookstore and read trade magazines to learn how to get a product on the market. You can also make sure your idea is not already available or that there’s something out there that is better than your idea.

4. Build a prototype or a simple working model of your idea. It can help you prove the concept and perhaps enable you to improve upon it.

5. Join an inventors’ group to meet people just like you. Find such a group by contacting the United Inventors Association (www.uiausa.org).