If I were in your shoes (and granted, I don't know too much about this topic)...

I would write a detailed email explaining everything about 'my' idea and email it to myself -- RIGHT NOW -- just so I have paper proof that I had this idea before today's date. (I'm big on leaving a paper trail) Print it out and put it somewhere safe and don't delete the message in case you need it in the future.

To get a patent, you have to do a patent search.

Here's the link to the US Dept of Patent and Trademark -- http://www.uspto.gov/ (I'm assuming you're in the US -- my apologies if you're not)

They probably have an FAQ, articles or something that tells you how to go about this the right way without getting conned.

To get investors, you will need a detailed business plan and a marketing plan. It would probably be a good idea to do the marketing plan first to see if this idea will fly before you get in too deep.

Remember -- a manufacturer is probably going to want to make tens of thousands of those puppies to make it worth their while to do all the set up (make molds or whatever), and this is going to cost mucho $.

Then you have to figure out how you're going to package 'em and distribute 'em and market 'em, .....

And one more thing you might want to keep in mind... (if you're in the US) you will get a bill from your county for property tax on your products.

And another thing... what happens if some kid chews on it or chokes on it or kills his best friend with it or.... There's a lot of liability involved here so get liability insurance. It would probably be smart to form a corporation to protect yourself while you're at it.

Do all your homework FIRST!

Good luck!

Diane

The business writer who helps people grow their small business
http://www.BouncePublishing.com