For my Intro. to Business class, I am supposed to come up with a new product or an old product with a new twist. It has to be something that you know for a fact can be made in this time period. Everything I think of, somebody has already invented it. So I was just wondering if anyone had any ideas to get me started. Thanks.

What about a powerful light weight magnet made into the lapel of a coat or jacket. That way we simply "throw the coat at a metal plate stuck on the wall and the coat sticks." A coat rack without hooks, if you will.

That's a creative idea for a new product! However, to ensure that it hasn't been invented before, it's important to research existing products in the market. Here's how you can get started:

1. Define your product: Clearly outline the features and benefits of the product you have in mind. In this case, your product is a coat or jacket with a powerful lightweight magnet on the lapel that allows it to stick to a metal plate on the wall.

2. Conduct a patent search: Use online databases like Google Patents, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website, or other patent search engines to check if a similar or identical invention has already been patented. Search for keywords related to your product idea, such as "magnetic coat" or "magnetic clothing."

3. Search existing products: Look for similar products that are currently in the market. Check online retailers, catalogs, and local stores to see if there are any coat or jacket designs with magnetic features that allow them to stick to surfaces. Also, examine the functionality and purpose of those products; if they don't serve the same purpose as your idea, it might still be unique.

4. Analyze gaps in the market: Identify any gaps or opportunities in existing products. Consider what could be improved or added to make your product distinct and better suited to consumers' needs. Is there something unique about your design or functionality that stands out from other magnetic products?

5. Refine your concept: Make any necessary adjustments to the features, design, or functionality of your product to ensure it is unique and different from existing options. You may need to iterate and refine your idea based on your research findings.

Remember, novelty is crucial when developing a new product, so taking the time to thoroughly research existing options will help ensure that your idea is truly innovative. Good luck with your project!