HOW TO CONDUCT A FREE PATENT SEARCH

Before applying for a patent, it is crucial to conduct a thorough patent search to determine whether your invention, product idea, or technology has already been protected. Performing a patent search helps you avoid accidental infringement, assess the novelty of your invention and make informed decisions before investing in the time and cost of a patent application. The good news is that a basic patent search can be performed for free, typically taking just an hour or two, and you can also access expert support at your local Patent Library.

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UK IPO SEARCH TOOL...

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The UK Intellectual Property Office’s One IPO Search tool is the official platform for checking the status of UK patent applications. Unlike the previous Ipsum system, this updated tool allows inventors, entrepreneurs, and businesses to search using keywords that describe their invention, technology, or product, without needing a specific application or publication number. For example, if you have developed a new type of coffee machine, entering keywords like “coffee machine” or “automatic brewing” will generate relevant patent results.

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The One IPO Search tool provides key information for each patent application, including the application and publication numbers, filing dates, inventor or applicant details, and current status. You can also view classification codes to understand the technology area of each patent and access links to full published documents. These features are essential for checking prior art, assessing the novelty of your invention, and identifying potential conflicts with existing patents.

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The search platform allows filtering by date, status, and patent type, enabling you to focus on the most relevant results. Detailed PDF copies of published patent applications and granted patents can be downloaded for closer examination. This makes it easier to prepare a strong and defensible patent application. For additional support, the IPO provides online tutorials, and local Patent Library staff are available to guide inventors through complex searches, ensuring you can confidently assess whether your invention is patentable.

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ESPACENET AND THE EUROPEAN PATENT REGISTER

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Espacenet, in combination with the European Patent Register, offers free access to over 70 million patent documents worldwide, covering inventions and technical developments from as early as 1836. It is a comprehensive resource for inventors and businesses looking to research prior art and evaluate the uniqueness of their ideas on a global scale.

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Espacenet allows searches using keywords, patent classifications, inventors, publication numbers, and filing dates. Its Advanced Search feature enables more detailed queries, such as entering a term like “hair brush” in the title, abstract, or keyword fields to identify similar inventions. This functionality helps uncover prior art, assess novelty, and avoid potential infringement issues.

 

For innovators exploring international markets, Espacenet is invaluable. By reviewing patents filed in multiple countries, you can gain insights into global technological trends, assess competitor activity, and determine the likelihood of your patent being granted abroad. Using this platform effectively supports strategic decision-making and strengthens your patent application.

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WIPO’S PATENTSCOPE DATABASE

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Patentscope, maintained by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), provides free access to over 52 million patent documents, including nearly three million international patent applications and national collections from 38 participating authorities. This makes Patentscope an essential tool for inventors, companies, and entrepreneurs seeking international patent protection.

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The database offers three search methods: Simple Search, Advanced Search, and Field Combination Search. Simple Search allows keyword-based queries, Advanced Search enables complex searches with Boolean operators and field codes, and Field Combination Search lets you target specific fields such as title, abstract, description, or inventor. For instance, if you have invented a new wearable device, you can search using precise keywords to locate similar patents worldwide.

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Patentscope is especially useful for evaluating prior art, monitoring global patent trends, and identifying potential infringement risks. It provides inventors with the insights needed to develop international filing strategies, explore licensing opportunities, and protect their intellectual property across multiple jurisdictions.

 

VISIT YOUR LOCAL PATENT LIBRARY

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Patent Libraries are located in major UK cities, including Aberdeen, Birmingham, Cambridge, Glasgow, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Northampton, Norwich, Nottingham, Plymouth, Portsmouth, and Sheffield. These libraries offer expert support to help inventors and businesses perform comprehensive patent searches.

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Qualified staff can guide you through complex searches, assist with IPO and EPO databases, and provide advice on intellectual property strategy. They can also help with novelty searches and provide access to technical and patent literature that may not be available online. While there may be a small fee for printing or copying documents, the professional support ensures that your invention can be accurately evaluated for patentability.

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Patent Libraries also offer additional services, including bespoke training sessions, business information advice, monitoring current patent applications, and referrals to specialist IP service providers. By visiting a Patent Library, inventors gain access to resources and expertise that significantly improve the quality of their patent search and increase confidence before filing a patent application.

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WHY PERFORMING A PATENT SEARCH IS ESSENTIAL

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Conducting a patent search before filing ensures that your invention is novel, reduces the risk of infringing existing patents and enables informed strategic decisions about patent protection. Using free resources such as the UK IPO's search tool, Espacenet, Patentscope and local Patent Libraries not only allows you to evaluate prior art but to refine your product / design to increase the likelihood of successful patent registration - which in turn strengthens your position for licensing, investment and commercialisation opportunities.

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GET PROFESSIONAL PATENT SEARCH SUPPORT TODAY

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Performing a patent search can be straightforward, but professional guidance ensures you don’t miss critical prior art. Our team can assist you with a comprehensive patent search, analysis and advice on next steps to protect your invention.

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Book your free consultation today and make sure your idea is truly unique before investing in a patent application. Protect your innovation, avoid costly mistakes and take the first step toward securing your intellectual property rights.