My product is so simple I don't think I need a patent.
This doesn't make any sense at all -- if it's a simple invention, it arguably needs patent protection even more than a complex invention does!
I have a simple invention, I have sent info to Invent Tech and Inventors helpline. They both claim they are extrememly excited about my project and want to get started right away. They state it remains confidential, both offer alot of services. Now people are telling me these company's will rip me off. Company's are requesting $675-875.00 to start process: Portfolio's, Graphic Illustrators, Patent Attorney, researching and marketing product, trade shows etc, they sound legit.
What do promise they will do? What guarantees of confidentiality do they promise -- are they in writing? Further, if you are not seeking patent protection, why does confidentiality matter?
The company states they will register and get certification from patent company that claims me as owner...that patent not neccessary or protection due to fact that anyone can make a few changes (12%) and then patent wpouldn't cover it.
This also makes so sense at all. If you know what it takes to "get around" the patent, why couldn't a patent be drafted in such a way to keep someone from doing that "12%?"
Of course, if your invention isn't patentable in the first place, then I would see why you wouldn't need a patent!
Also, is registering and getting certified or certificate with patent office OK with such a simple idea. (Rather than getting Patent)?
Here's the reality -- there are only 2 ways, and only 2 ways, to protect an invention. The first is to keep it secret -- but that only works for as long as you can actually keep it secret, and if it is a product that you want to sell, well, you can't relly keep it secret and sell it, can you?
The other was is by a patent.
If you don't patent the invention, or don't keep it secret, or if the invention isn't patentable, then there is NO WAY to protect it. Period.
If you invent a widget, and do not obtain patent protection or keep it secret, I could buy a widget from you, reverse engineer it, and make my own widgets and sell them -- and there is NOTHING you could do to stop me. That's why I suggested above that a simple invention may need a patent MORE than a complicated invention, because if it is simple, anyone could manufacture their own version and you wouldn't be able to sell any yourself.
I'm not trying to discourage you, just trying to let you in on the reality of the whole situation. There are no "certificates" or "certifications" that will provide you with ANY protection -- only a patent can protect you.
And further, think about it -- what company is going to want to purchase the rights to your invention if it can't be protected? Why would any company want to ramp up production on your widgets if they knew that as soon as they sold one, other's could maybe undercut them in price?
Rather than spend the $675-875.00 now, I would do a coupl eof things. First, try and contact a local patent agent or attorney who can review your invention and let you know if it is something that could be patented. They can also tell you what it might cost, and give their opinions based on their experience whether you have anything worthwhile or not. An agent will likely by cheaper than an attorney; as long as they are register with the US Patent Office, either can help you out. You can go here to search for an agent or attorney in your area:
http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/dcom/olia/oed/roster/index.html
Second, contact these invention submission corps and find out what they offer, and get everything IN WRITING. They are asking for a lot of money up front, so find out exactly WHAT they are promising. You may also want to discuss what they say with an agent or attorney; they very well may have some further insight in to these groups.
