I would like to know what options I have in regards to creatively modifying
an existing item to then create a unique new item to sell. Does my new item
still need to reflect the original items country of origin? Is my new item
different from its original state enough so as to be considered a completely
separate and unique item unto itself? Does this make me the manufacturer as
pertaining to the new items creation?
JGabriel | Community Moderator |
12/6/2012 - 10:46 am
BizResearcher makes a good point about contacting a local resource so to receive specific guidance. SBA has resource partners like SCORE, Women’s Business Centers and Small Business Development Centers located across the country that provide free business counseling to individuals looking to start or expand a small business. Visit our local assistance guide to find your local SBA resource partners by entering your zip code.
Is the original item patented? If so, you need to make enough changes that
you don't violate the existing patent. You may want to visit with a counselor
at a small business development center or a SCORE office. They can help you
evaluate the extent of your modifications and whether you can go forward with
your idea without possibly incurring a lawsuit.
ok a few days has past and I guess nobody was able to answer any of my
questions. Being that I know this is an open forum I didn't want to say to
much and give somebody else my idea. I suppose though perhaps some additional
info is needed to truly grasp my questions.
So heres a brief description I have access to a bunch of nice leather. It was
produced in China originally made as upholstery for furniture. I want to
modify that material to make it into an organizer for a car. I also have been
working on a design for an apron made of the material. I will have to
cut/puncture the material in a few places and apply some grommets and straps
to it. In the end the material will not be used as or associated in anyway
with home furniture upholstery. Is this a new item? Am I now the manufacturer
of this item? Is it now made in America? Do I have to mention it being
previously upholstery? Do I need to mention the origin country of production
still if it is no longer in its original state?
JGabriel | Community Moderator | 12/6/2012 - 10:46 am
BizResearcher | Window Shopper | 12/4/2012 - 1:30 pm
you don't violate the existing patent. You may want to visit with a counselor
at a small business development center or a SCORE office. They can help you
evaluate the extent of your modifications and whether you can go forward with
your idea without possibly incurring a lawsuit.
Car Flare | Window Shopper | 12/4/2012 - 12:32 pm
questions. Being that I know this is an open forum I didn't want to say to
much and give somebody else my idea. I suppose though perhaps some additional
info is needed to truly grasp my questions.
So heres a brief description I have access to a bunch of nice leather. It was
produced in China originally made as upholstery for furniture. I want to
modify that material to make it into an organizer for a car. I also have been
working on a design for an apron made of the material. I will have to
cut/puncture the material in a few places and apply some grommets and straps
to it. In the end the material will not be used as or associated in anyway
with home furniture upholstery. Is this a new item? Am I now the manufacturer
of this item? Is it now made in America? Do I have to mention it being
previously upholstery? Do I need to mention the origin country of production
still if it is no longer in its original state?
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