I have invented a new type of tool that will revolutionize the repair of automobiles. How do I get a patent on this and how do I market the product once I have a patent? I do not have much money so I need to get this done at a reduced cost. Obtaining a patent without first making sure there is a market for your innovation is the same as throwing away money. Too often, I have seen inventors become attached to a new idea, not because it would result in a marketable product, but because they want to make sure they win the patent. A patent is only valuable if it secures your ability to provide products or services that can be sold in the marketplace. Once you determine that you have a marketable idea, your next task is to conduct a preliminary patent search to make sure that you're not just duplicating someone else's brainstorm.