Help with patenting a new machine?

I have an idea for a novelty machine that I feel could be sold as a home-use product. (It's somewhat along the lines of a vending machine, if that provides some info). I have a very detailed description of the product's functions and materials; however, I'm far from a functioning engineer/mechanic and the odds of me actually making a working model are pretty much zip. ><
I do have some family members and friends who might be able to help me with the engineering, but again, it's a small but rather complex device possibly including electronics beyond simple mechanical functions.
So is there a way to contact a company who might be interested in buying and using this idea (I'm aiming for an infomercial-type company that frequently targets business and homeowners)? Or should I attempt to file for a patent?
I'm not 100% if my idea is enough to patent- I know it's more than an improvement of an existing product, and it is fairly original; however I know most patents require a working model be submitted... any help would be appreciated!

(Oh, and yes, I do know that patents are expensive, and I do have some money put aside to throw into this project IF it's feasible).

If you don't get a patent than any large corporation can steal it from you.

You need to be very specific of what the machine does and how it does it (no need for schematics and such) and then search for "free online patents" and expect to do a lot of reading to educate yourself. Then you can file an online patent for little or no cost.

What is expensive with patents is a lawyers service but that is not 100% needed.

Then you can look for a "design firm" to make a prototype and then they can lead you to the proper company to manufacture it.