Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I have a great idea for a household device that would involve metal/plastic/wood/springs and other things that are just impossible for me to work with. How do I find an engineer or (insert title of mechanically inclined person) to help me? And of course I want to protect my idea too. Any thoughts?

Speaking with a patent attorney is a best, first step.  Many will meet with you for a first time at no charge to discuss patentabillity.  For all others, a Non-Disclosure / Non-Compete is always a good practice with everyone you speak with.

Doug

I've got your answer right here.  Either contact Robb Rudluff over at www.Phluid.com or Contact the guys over at www.designmyidea.com

Robb over at Phluid Inc. is a good friend of mine.  I personally used to own half of the company with him back in 2005.  Now I've moved on to new industries.  Robb over at Phluid Inc. is building a prototype for me right now.  I'm spending almost $200K and I have no patents on the device yet.  The guys over at designmyidea will be finishing up my prototype.

I have many aspects of engineering going into my device.  Industrial, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering designs are all going into it.  I trust Robb and his staff entirely.  Plus, being a former partner in the design company, let me answer your question by saying the following:  These design guys and even most design engineers don't care about taking or stealing your idea.  They are there to help you succeed.  Engineers are not wired like us entreprenuers.  They are only thinking technical aspects and smaller number signs.  You and I are thinking millions and billions.  They don't have that drive to make those kinds of numbers.

So feel rest assured that your product ideas will  be safe with them.

In fact, you can send me a Private Message to my personal email and I will hook you up with Robb at Phluid Inc. Design.

My email is: dan@roastedstone.com

Robb's Email is: robb.rudluff@phluid.com

Robb's Phone is: 714-264-3559

Hope this Helps.

DAN

Ametista

I'm not sure where your located but there are a lot of design firms out there.

Just be careful there are more scammers than real designers.

Make sure you meet with the design firm before you talk about your product and get some referances from them.  Have them sign a nondisclosure agreement also.

You just want them to do design not market research.  If they say they do market research RUN!

My company make prototypes and production parts.  We work with a lot of design firms.

Let me know if you need a referral.

CW