Inventors come up with hundreds of ideas for everything from toys to improved
tires. Once they believe they have a good concept, inventors apply for a patent,
search out the licensing of the product and look for someone who wants to
produce the item.
Failure is a big part of the invention process. Nothing works the first
time. When an inventor's idea fails, they work harder to improve the concept
or to change their problem-solving techniques.
Many inventors are self-employed. Some work part time or in their spare
time. Others are retired from other professions, such as engineering. Other
inventors work for large companies and corporations, working full time to
improve their products.
An inventor working for a corporation may have the luxury of working regular
office hours. Those who are self-employed tend to work longer hours and can
tinker with ideas at all hours of the day.
"There are really two types of inventors," says Harry VanDyke. He is an
inventor. "There are people who work and invent on their own. And there are
people who work for companies, such as engineers."
The physical requirements for an inventor depend upon the type of work
being done. If an inventor is building large prototype models, some physical
strength is needed. However, some inventors can design and draft ideas with
the aid of a computer in the comfort of their own home.