Creativity and imagination is are qualities we are all born with, in some people these qualities tend to develop rather faster compared to others. Imagination has fueled our inherent desire to overcome obstacles and improve the tools we have available today, creativity on the other hand helps us create and materialize the ideas we have developed.

The process of invention is pleasant and rewarding but when it comes to obtaining a patent which makes you the legitimate owner of your creations and ideas the field changes. The first step towards obtaining a patent is to search the online database provided by through the government website which is in charge of keeping all of these records, this way you will know in an instant if your idea has already been patented or if it isn't.

The U.S. Patent Office is in charge of keeping all records related to invention and ideas, their site address is uspto.gov , all the paperwork and applications needed to process a new patent are available on both online and off-line sources. These forms can be filled out by yourself or with the help of an attorney if you don't feel quite comfortable with the process, however, must of the forms are straight forward, the information requested involves name of the inventor, description, functionality, drawings or charts and any other information pertinent to the idea being patented. The forms you will have to choose from are utility, plant and design; each one is intended for a specific kind of invention or idea.

You also need to be aware that there is a fee to have this paperwork processed. Once you have the information ready you can submit the form either electronically or in person. The person who reviews the form on behalf of the office will evaluate the information submitted and if it turns out your idea is unique you will get a patent which will protect your rights and will allow you to legally receive credits for your work.

The next step is to find an organization which helps inventors develop and market their ideas, this will launch your product full force into the market.

One more fact you need to be aware of is that this kind of protection is not permanent, depending on the application filed your idea is protected either 14 or 20 years. Twenty year protection applies to utility/plant and 14 year protection applies to design patents.

Always be patient and optimistic about the results of your submission, good luck!