Patent Searches
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1
Prior Art Search
General research in the field embracing the subject of the search enables the determination of groups of solutions which are protected within this field. This particularly useful for conducting subsequent patentability searches or clearance searches.
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2
Prior Art and Patentability Search
Aims to determine whether the subject of the search is patentable and may by the subject of a patent (or utility model) application.
It is especially recommended before filing a patent application:- if the results are positive the search enables the subject to be distinguished from prior art solutions and thus to define the broadest possible scope of patent protection, as well as to foresee the future of patent prosecution;
- if the results are negative the search may help to avoid the high costs involved in in patent protection due to patent prosecutions that might not succeed.
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3
Clearance Search (freedom to operate)
Aims to determine whether the subject of the search would violate an issued patent or pending application for which the patent may be granted at the territory of the search.
state of the artEverything that is made available to the public by means of a written or oral description, by use, or in any other way, before the date of filing of the European patent application.