Discussion:
I'm in Illinois and I have a HUGE idea. I have been to us patent and trademark site for info and preliminary searches and I will be hiring a qualified patent lawyer - but, there are some things I'd like to be clear on before I approach financial backers(needed before filing).
As I understand it, filing a provisional does not protect me Internationally, correct?
I'll be using some existing technology - modified to fit my application. I have seen many variations of this existing technology. Can I use another (my) variation for my application without infringing?
Also, my product has multi-uses, commercial, residential, etc. simply by increasing or decreasing its "size". Will it be necessary to file for a patent for each possible application to adequately protect it for these various uses?

I have been to this site many times and have received the information I needed (from previously posted questions). I thank you ALL for your consideration and sincerely appreciate any time and effort it may take for my question.
[Edited by successor on 06-20-2001 at 06:58 AM]
Answer:
Well, you did the smartest thing: hiring a patent lawyer.
go to uspto.gov
and also, read this article:
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I am a law school graduate. What I offer is mere information, not to be construed as forming an attorney client relationship.