2. If you just have an idea and haven't verified or realized the invention, you don't have the conditions to apply for a patent. Patents protect technical solutions rather than ideas. What you disclose must be able to directly reproduce the invention and achieve the expected effect, otherwise it cannot be authorized.
You don't have to feel depressed. Patents are not as simple as some people think, although they are not particularly complicated. If you want to apply for a patent, it must be an invention, not an idea. For example, Edison could not protect the idea of "electric light" before he invented the electric light, but only after he really made the electric light product could he apply for a patent for the product. In the process from idea to product, he has experienced countless experiments. This process eventually leads to the novelty, creativity and practicality of the invention. Therefore, just having ideas is not enough. If you are not a professional, you can consider inventing some simple and practical products.
It's a good idea to find a patent agent to help you apply for a patent. At present, 95% of patent applications in China are completed through agents. You can find an agent close to your technical background, and an experienced agent can help you solve many unexpected problems. If you find such an agent, you won't be suspicious.
The technology is improving constantly, you can't stop others from reinventing, others can apply for a patent again and implement it. If other people's technology or products fall within the scope you advocate, you need to get your permission to implement them, such as paying you patent fees. But your request must be reasonable. If the claim itself is not patentable, others can completely declare your patent invalid or refuse to pay the royalties. The best way to prevent it is to know yourself and yourself. When you apply for a patent, you should know whether your invention is novel and creative compared with the existing technology, write a reasonable scope of rights when you apply, and compare it when you find that others stop it to determine whether it belongs to your scope of rights. The later operation is complicated. When you encounter problems, you'd better hire a lawyer or patent agent to help you.
It is not uncommon for others to plagiarize before the patent is granted, so you must speed up the implementation of your invention and occupy the market. Only after the patent is granted can you protect your exclusivity in the market.