Working drawings are different from those forming a part of the patent in that they are more detailed, giving the size of each piece and the material of which it is constructed. While working drawings are not quite as expensive as models, they do not show the invention to[p. 54] the advantage that models do, and are of little value to those who do not understand them. On the other hand, working drawings have the advantage of being easily sent through the mails, and can be duplicated at small cost. Manufacturers prefer working drawings to models in quoting prices on manufacturing the invention in quantities.
CHAPTER VI
HOW TO CONDUCT THE SALE OF PATENTS—Continued
In conducting the sale of patents, the greatest difficulty is most frequently experienced in getting manufacturers or others sufficiently interested to look into the merits and possibilities of the invention. If the inventor can get the parties to actually consent in their own minds to the proposition of taking up the invention, the question of terms and conditions can soon be arranged. Until the parties solicited can see beyond a doubt that there is large profits in it for them, the price of the patent is out of the question; therefore, the first step is to demonstrate its merits and commercial value, and get the parties thoroughly interested.
Patentees should not labor under the impression that because a patent is offered at a very low price that it will be quickly snapped up as a bargain; as before stated, if a patent will not bring in money by manufacturing and selling the article, it is worthless; and its real value is in exact proportion to the amount of profits that can be made from its manufacture.[p. 56]
Should the patentee find that his patent has no commercial value, it is almost useless to spend more time and money in trying to realize anything from it; he had better start again, and endeavor to invent something that has value and can be sold.
Value of Personal Influence.
Inventors should use the full extent of their personal influence to spread particulars of their inventions as far as possible, for this indirect work is often a leading factor in creating a favorable impression that frequently results in the adaption of an invention.