my idea works, what next?

have2flushtwice

I came up with an idea a few years ago, lets call my idea a tea making machine, just for the sake of it.

I have kinda sat on it since, because i didnt know how to make the tea machine, but i knew the end result would be nice tea!

Recently i have actually made a mock up of the tea machine. Its rough but it works. I can go and get a pro to make it and it will be saleable.

Im cmncerned that someone would copy my idea, and take it over.
It might not be worth taking out a patent on
Would i be better to get the tea machine working well and sell the idea, and take a royalty on each one sold,
Or bite the bullet, apply for patent, and try sell it outright?

Regarding costs, approx sale price incl install is 900 euro. Number of units, maybe 10,000 over 3 years
Thanks.

Peterdalkey

Your first step is to find out if your idea is even capable of being patented! you can do some pre-work online to establish if your vital novel step is unique by searching for what you believe to be unique and innovative in your design. Then go to a patent agent to confirm and seek short term protection, a relatively inexpensive measure.
if it is not patentable, you probably only possess a nice idea of little commercial value!

sawdoubters

I saw a tea making machine 20 years ago

gctest50

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNb-FOTJY1c

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2239190/Tea-machine-makes-perfect-cuppa-just-minutes---cost-7-000-teabags.html


http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BTM800XL-One-Touch-Tea-Maker/dp/B003LNOPSG