Patent search & prior-art review.
Coordinate a technical search and an initial patentability assessment with an appropriate IP professional.
The right support.
With the details in view.
Explore existing technical disclosures before deciding how to protect an invention. We coordinate a defined search with a suitable patent professional, using the technical features and intended claims as a starting point. Search findings inform patentability discussions; they are distinct from a freedom-to-operate opinion or a guarantee of novelty.
First, establish what applies
Search, application, examination and grant or registration are different stages. Assess ownership, prior rights, classes and evidence with the relevant IP professional; an application does not guarantee protection.
What the scoped work can cover
- Agreed search scope and technical feature map
- Relevant prior-art references and comparison note
- Professional review and filing-strategy questions
The documents.
A clearer starting point.
Use this as a preparation list for the initial review. The final checklist is confirmed against the applicant, service route, location and current authority requirements.
- 01
Confidential technical disclosure describing the problem and solution
- 02
Drawings, prototypes, test results or process diagrams
- 03
Known patents, publications and competing products
- 04
Development and disclosure dates
- 05
Search territories and intended commercial use
Share sensitive records only through an agreed secure channel after the engagement is confirmed. Do not send passwords, OTPs or signing keys.
One step.
Then the next.
A clear sequence, with room to resolve the details that are specific to your business.
- 01
Define the technical scope
Identify the essential features and agree the search objective and databases.
- 02
Search prior disclosures
Coordinate patent and relevant non-patent literature searches within the agreed scope.
- 03
Compare the invention
Assess relevant disclosures against the invention’s features and potential claim direction.
- 04
Review the filing strategy
Discuss patentability concerns, additional research and whether a separate freedom-to-operate review is needed.
Scope, fees and timing are agreed after review. Document readiness, professional review and any authority queries affect the schedule. Statutory charges, testing, execution and other third-party costs are identified where relevant.
Keep the next
responsibility in view.
Update the disclosure and search if the invention changes; agree confidentiality and a filing strategy before public release.
Explore obligations beyond your core businessGood questions.
Useful answers.
01Does a search prove my invention is patentable?+
No search is exhaustive. Patentability also depends on claim drafting, exclusions and examination by the Patent Office.
02Is this a freedom-to-operate assessment?+
No. A patentability search asks whether an invention may be protectable. Freedom to operate assesses infringement risk from enforceable claims in specific markets.
03Should I publish my invention before searching?+
Public disclosure may affect rights. Keep technical information confidential and obtain patent advice before a launch, publication or unrestricted pitch.