The design process
A need must exist for the machine
Search for existing machines that may fulfill the need; search for information that may be useful in the design
State the function and goals for the machine
Outline the criteria and constraints of the design
Begin ideation and invention stage (synthesis)
Analyze the resulting design
Select machine components
Detail the design with drawings and specifications
Build and test the prototype
Produce the design
A patent search is among the first steps taken by a Patent Attorney when an inventor is seeking a patent.  The objective of the patent search is to make sure that a device, process, or idea is truly unique and that a patent has not already been granted for an existing design.