As a patent holder, I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to obtain a patent. "Patent Pending," doesn't prevent a company from stealing your idea. I think this will be a good show because you can get rich quick, if you invent an excellent object! Good luck to those contestants because trying to get a licensing agreement as was in my case was impossible for me!

I believe the best estimation of the American Inventor show, is that it is 'show business'. They don't actually care about what we have invented, and give 'ZERO' guarnatees that your stuff won't be taken if we audition without a 'PATENT'. I sugguest you at least get a patent application IN so you hold a 'patent-pending'. It could make all the difference in the world if big business wants to produce your product! I think it will all be in good fun. I guess I feel "So what if I'm 'HUMILIATED' on national/internaltional television. At least I can say I WAS THERE." (teehee). We are your true blue Americans, wanting to share our nerdy thought processes with you. What better entertainment is there... I mean really. I bet you say at least ONCE, I thought of that TOO!