Patent search is a very important step. Before applying for a patent, a patent search must be conducted to determine whether the invention has been applied for by others or has related patent rights. When searching for foreign patents, companies can use a variety of methods and methods. For example, you can use a professional patent search engine or database such as Google
Patent, Espacenet, WIPO, etc. to search, then let’s learn about the ways and methods to search foreign patents.
1. Ways to search for foreign patents.
1. Paper retrieval: Paper carrier is the main form of patent documents and the main object of retrieval. The information found through paper searches is generally the least error-prone and has the most evidentiary effect. However, paper retrieval is inefficient, time-consuming and labor-intensive, and is easily lost and damaged. Moreover, the latest information is difficult to find in paper searches.
2. Software retrieval: Software retrieval generally includes microfilm, computer magnetic media and optical disk patent document retrieval. With the continuous development and popularization of computer technology, CD-ROM databases have played an important role in patent retrieval and acquisition of patent full text. Although CD retrieval is faster, the scope of use of CD retrieval is relatively limited, and the update speed is relatively slow.
3. Internet retrieval: Internet retrieval is undoubtedly the most convenient retrieval method, with fast speed and new content. It must be downloaded and certified to be legally binding. If it is to be used as evidence, the relevant departments need to provide corresponding certificates.
2. Methods of searching foreign patents.
1. Website of China State Intellectual Property Office.
The website provides 16 search fields. Users can search with single or multiple limited conditions in these fields based on known conditions. Each search field can be used for fuzzy search, using % to represent any letter, number or word. You can also use multiple fuzzy characters anywhere in the input search string. In addition, IPC classification navigation search is also a feature of this website. You can query the categories of interest step by step and provide keyword search.
2. IncoPat technology innovation information platform.
This website has the world’s largest Chinese patent database, covering technological achievements and patent information from all over the world. Users can conduct patent searches through multiple methods such as keyword search, author search, IPC search, and cited literature search.
3. China Patent Information Network.
This website is the official release channel for China’s patent information. It provides services such as patent applicant inquiry, patent agency inquiry, patent annual fee inquiry, patent full text download, etc. It also provides keyword search and classification. Multiple search entrances such as search, inventor, applicant, public announcement date, etc.
4. Patent Hub-patenthub patent search engine.
The website provides a simple and easy-to-use patent search interface, supporting multiple search entries, such as keywords, classifications, applicants, inventors, etc. Users can conduct patent searches in a variety of ways, including fuzzy matching, exact matching, etc.
3. How to quickly search for patents.
1. The search terms must be entered in English, not case-sensitive, and cannot exceed four words at most.
2. You can use logical combinations, truncation characters, etc. to search. The search terms default to AND relationships.
3. If you need to accurately search for a certain concept or company name, you can use “” to limit the search terms.
4. Pay attention to the use of abbreviations. It is best to use both abbreviations and full names to search to achieve more comprehensive search results.
5. The applicant can be an individual or an organization, not necessarily the inventor. The surname comes first, the given name comes last, and the applicant’s first name is often abbreviated.
6. When choosing to search using a person’s name or a company’s name, avoid using words like Inc, Corp, etc. Using these words in a company name may lead to biased search results.
The above introduction is relevant knowledge about the ways and methods to search for foreign patents. In order to ensure effective patent search and utilization, it is recommended to rely on professional intellectual property consulting services or agencies, and choose according to the actual situation and needs Appropriate search methods and tools. In addition, it is necessary to understand the patent laws and regulations of different countries or regions to ensure that patent activities comply with local legal standards. In short, for enterprises, implementing a successful patent strategy on a global scale requires making full use of various resources and approaches to ensure that they obtain the required intellectual property protection and technical support and continue to grow and compete with the competition.