re: Where to go/what to do if you have an idea for an invention?

These responses are helping!

Searched Google Patents and didn't find a thing close to my idea!

But my main concern now - if I had just the drawings and not an actual prototype, could I still get a patent and secure my idea?

I can draw and describe it all day, but for me to actually engineer this product is a bit of a stretch for me and my business admin. degree.

I also have read about using non-disclourse agreements. I want to be prepared before I go and talk to someone.

So long story short...

2nd Question:
To obtain a "strong" patent, does one need a fully functional prototype?