A Freedom to Operate (FTO) search is conducted to ensure a product does not infringe valid in-force patents. These patents are held within a country/region where an organization intends to conduct business. FTO Search is also known as Freedom to Practice search. The organization may have some options available even after FTO search provides existence[…]
Design search is prudent when you want to protect the aesthetic configuration of an object. In most jurisdictions, a design patent or registration is a form of legal protection granted to the ornamental design of a functional item. The Office grants design patent if the design doesn’t change the functionality of the object but gives[…]
“Invalidity” and “Validity Search” are essentially the same. Both these searches find relevant prior-art documents relevent enough to invalidate the claims of the target patent. Specifically, the invalidity search find prior-art documents to invalidate the claims of the target patent; and the validity search establish enforceability of the claims of the target patent. Invalidity search[…]
It is often easy to identify major players which hold a significant patent portfolio in an industry. Sometimes, you may want to analyze patent portfolio of a particular company. Further, sometimes you may wish to know a product which employs a certain technology. And, thus you need to find the corresponding patent for that technology.[…]
There is always a debate around paid and free databases.It is essential to look at advantages which paid patent search databases over free databases Benefits of paid patent search databases Advantages of paid databases outnumber the benefits of free databases. Here are some major pros of using paid databases. Coverages Paid patent search databases provide patent[…]
Before starting any kind of patent search and deciding on whether to conduct a search on your own or hire an attorney or a patent search firm, it is essential to be well versed with the different patent search databases – so you can weigh your options and in case of outsourcing also understand what[…]
To conduct an effective patent search and also to understand the scope of a patent, it is important to understand what all information is available in a patent document and how to read a patent for patent searches. Content of a patent A patent is a meticulous document. It consist of different important fields necessary[…]
Choosing the right Patent Search for your invention from a bunch of different types of patent searches available is really important. As an inventor or a business person, there might be a number of different occasions on which you may require a patent search. For instance, for your research and development projects or business and[…]
First step to filing a patent is to conduct a patentability search in order to ensure the novelty of the invention. Patentability search involve different patent searching strategies depending on the type of invention and technical field. Knowledge of these strategies helps to conduct a more comprehensive search. Some of the most commonly used Patent[…]
At the beginning of a patent search, one is often puzzled with how to start with the search. Relevent patent searching resources are essential for a better result. The findings of the broader research can help with developing better sense of the technology and further helps to build stronger background knowledge. This information helps to[…]