Do I need to make a real thing to apply for a patent?

Legal analysis: you don't need to make objects to apply for patents, and you don't need to provide objects to apply for inventions, utility models and designs. However, attention should be paid to the following relevant provisions: the subject matter of an application for invention or utility model must be able to be manufactured or used in industry and produce positive effects.

Legal basis: Article 26 of the Patent Law of People's Republic of China (PRC), when applying for a patent for invention or utility model, a request, specification, abstract, patent right and other documents shall be submitted. The request shall specify the name of the invention or utility model, the name of the inventor, the name and address of the applicant and other matters. The specification shall give a clear and complete description of the invention or utility model, which shall be subject to the realization of the technical personnel in the technical field; Attached drawings shall be attached when necessary. The technical points of the invention or utility model shall be briefly explained. The patent claim shall be based on the specification, and clearly and briefly define the scope of patent protection. For inventions that rely on genetic resources, the applicant shall state the direct source and original source of genetic resources in the patent application documents; If the applicant cannot explain the original source, it shall explain the reasons.

Article 27 To apply for a patent for design, a written request, a picture or photograph of the design, a brief description of the design and other documents shall be submitted. The relevant pictures or photographs submitted by the applicant shall clearly indicate the design of the product for which patent protection is required.