I'm wanting to know the process of an invention

I have an idea no money
Willing to do the 9 yards 10 if need be
What next prototype?paitient?which order
How do you find out if someone has come up with the idea where do you look
I

I found two "for Dummies" books helpful:
Inventing for Dummies and Patents, Copyrights & Trademarks for Dummies.

Be sure you are keeping a "diary" of every activity, thought and action that relates to your idea. Date each entry and keep it going. Include even this post.

Also, do some surfing for an Inventors association (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&q=inventors+association&btnG=Search) in your area.

Of course don't fall for any of the places that advertise on TV...