Entry bubble Getting a Patent on a Dude Vest

By: Ginger | January 09, 2009 | Category: General

Recently an idea for an invention popped into my head… a “Man-Bra.” I’m not saying who inspired this idea; let’s just call him “Myhu S. Band.” This special garment would provide some support for men with a more developed “chest region.” Made completely of duct tape (yet another use for that all-star of adhesives!), it will have many useful features. It will include: insulated pockets that will keep a minimum of 6 beers cold up to 3 hours; side pockets for the required TV, stereo, DVD, and TIVO remotes; and a GPS tracking system, so the wearer will never have to ask for directions ever again.

When I shared my idea with Myhu S. Band, he told me to call it a “Dude Vest.” He said, “No card-carrying member of the male race would be caught dead wearing a ‘Man Bra,’ even if he did need it… which he most certainly does not!” Hmmm, maybe the “Dude Vest” should include a mirror. He also recommended adding a hidden pocket for that special edition of “Sports Illustrated,” an LED flashlight with rechargeable batteries, and a Swiss Army knife on a detachable clip. I’m thinking it should probably include a pocket for a nose hair clipper too, but that is a topic for another blog.

Thomas EdisonSo, how do inventors go about getting a patent? My first stop was the patent page on USA.gov. It directed me to the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) website which has a patents page. There are applications for 3 types of patents you can apply for: utility, design, and plant patents. The PTO suggests that a lawyer familiar with patent law be consulted because of the complexities involved. You can search for patent attorneys online for your city and state.

If you have any other suggestions for my “Dude Vest” drop me a line. Or if you have gone through the patent process, we would all be interested to hear about your experience.

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