new lock pick tool idea

[fisherman1]

How do I go about making money off a new lock pick idea without manufacturing th product? Is there a way I could sell a prototype to someone and they could go thru the process of making it and patenting it?

[freakparade3]

Hire a patent lawyer.

[Jaakko]

I'm almost sure that the idea you have has been already invented. And if you patent something, it becomes public knowledge.

In here atleast is an innovation and inventions center that helps the inventer to do prototype and patenting, but I don't know how it is in there, where ever that is.

[Jaakko]

Sorry about the double, but what your invention does? Or for what kind of locks it is supposed to work on?

[fisherman1]

I works on any lock it lights up the inside so you caan see what your working on.

[UWSDWF]

intriguing... but lock picking is done by feel and not by sight.... kinda doesn't apply

[fisherman1]

intriguing... but lock picking is done by feel and not by sight.... kinda doesn't apply

I like having a look inside before I start picking.

[illusion]

Barring using a fibre optic camera of miniscule size, I don't see the benefit of said device.

A good knowledge of locking systems, and the ability to ID a lock from the markings and feedback should be sufficient. Most cylinder locks pretty much parade what is inside with huge logos on the front making identification silly easy in mist cases.

The tool might be usefull for some lever locks that you are unable to ID via the case or curtain, but I'm still sceptical.

Because of this I've chosen not to copy your idea and run to the patent office as fast as my legs will carry me.

[greyman]

How do I go about making money off a new lock pick idea without manufacturing th product? Is there a way I could sell a prototype to someone and they could go thru the process of making it and patenting it?

Not easily done. Do not show your prototype to anyone without a non-disclosure agreement. Under an appropriate NDA you could then discuss licensing fees for the technology. It would seem appropriate to have a registered design or patent to cover the idea, so a prototype may be needed. If you have a trusted manufacturer, you can probably dispense with some of this. You might be able to patent the idea on the strength of drawings and plans or CAD animations, etc. Applying for a patent isn't that hard - it does take some investment though (ie a patent attorney).

[fisherman1]

Ya I been thinking of seeing one of those lawyers. But they do cost quite a bit some I'm pondering doing the patent application by myself and applying for a US and Canadian patent. Also the device would be a good way to check if someone has attempted or has picked your lock.

[Gordon Airporte]

I swear I've seen an ottoscope like this one:
http://www.lockpickshop.com/LT1202.html
but with a blade attached to hold pins up...
If that's patented you have to make sure you aren't infringing.

[fisherman1]

I swear I've seen an ottoscope like this one:
http://www.lockpickshop.com/LT1202.html
but with a blade attached to hold pins up...
If that's patented you have to make sure you aren't infringing.

No mine works different to that one. I swear ive seen that in my doctors office.

[acestor]

You have, it is called an otoscope and it is use by doctors for looking in the ears and inspecting the ear drum.

[mh]

How do I go about making money off a new lock pick idea without manufacturing th product? Is there a way I could sell a prototype to someone and they could go thru the process of making it and patenting it?

Sure, e.g. search for Robotic Key System / Stanton Concepts and look at their business model.
That said, it's not guaranteed to be successful, though...

Cheers,
mh