Samples:
- Tele-operated, intrinsically stable pan/tilt mount for remote operation of weapons or tools
- Controls for zero turn mower
I define a machine as something that that moves without you having to manually move it. Some examples of patents I have been able to issue in this area relate to virtual reality machines, robots, sewing machines, and jar openers.
Machines can be found in a lot of different art groups at the USPTO in at least three technology centers (2800, 3600 and 3700). However, in each of these the key to obtaining a patent is explaining what structural components are unique from the art cited by the examiner.
Machines are normally only with utility patents. In a typical case, an inventor will file a provisional application shortly after coming up with the machine. Then, a prototype is built and tested both for market viability and for possible improvements. At some point either before or after filing the provisional application, a search is conducted and a patentability opinion is obtained. If the market seems viable a non-provisional application is filed within a year.
The AIPLA median cost from someone in the rural western United States is $2,000 for a novelty search, $3,500 for a provisional application and then $8,500 for the non-provisional application, $2,000 to respond to an office action and $600 to pay the issue fee and docket maintenance fees. A median case with one office action would cost $16,600 to issue. My 99th percentile cost across all kinds of applications is $9,676. If you go with me there is an excellent chance you will pay $6,900 less than someone you pick at random.
Call me and I will let you know if my service is a good fit for you.