Ya, it's sort of like that "New You" place in Logan's Run.
Some of the components that I am using are already patented by other people. What I will do is patent any additional hardware that I design. I will also submit a patent for the overall process. The place I worked at had numerous hardware patents s well as patents based upon a process.
I'm working on a new tool now that will more efficiently remove deep scratches in an established tank. It will be a major modification to someone else's patented tool, but it will meet the uniqueness criteria for a new patent due to the radical way that I have changed it. Sort of like the first boat patent, then someone else designs a better boat and patents it. If I'm not mistaken, as long as I have begun the formal patent process I can designate something as "Patent Pending". But if the patent is refused I have to remove it.
To explain the process in simple terms. It is magnet based just like our algae magnets. The difference is that I'm using extremely strong magnets, and can easily work on tanks up to about 1.6"-1.7" thick. You do not want to have any skin near these if they ever come together. They are strong enough to break a finger, cause a deep gash, etc. Someone suggested renting the equipment out for people to do their own tanks, but after considering it I wouldn't feel safe letting magnets this strong out for general use. I have very strict protocols for handling them so I don't get hurt. Also, they are fairly expensive.
The external magnet looks just like an algae magnet. The interior magnet connects to a special rig that acts as a fine abrasive. The abrasive looks like a very fine micro-mesh, but is in fact an abrasive cloth. What makes it work so well, is the huge pressure being exerted on it by the two magnets. The interior magnet has a footprint of 3"x3". It gives a very even finish.
Does that help to explain it a little?
Marc