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 IPO's search tool is designed to make it easy for inventors, businesses, and entrepreneurs to check whether their invention or technology has already been patented. Unlike the old Ipsum system, you don’t need a specific application or publication number to start your search. Instead, you can use keywords that describe your invention, technology, or product. For example, if you’ve developed a new type of coffee machine, simply entering relevant terms like “coffee machine” or “automatic brewing” will display relevant patent results.

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Once you perform a search, the tool provides key information on each patent application, including the application and publication numbers, filing dates, inventor or applicant details, and the current status of the patent. You can also view the patent’s classification codes, which help you understand the technology area it belongs to and see links to the full published documents. This is particularly useful for checking prior art, evaluating the novelty of your invention, and understanding how similar patents may affect your application.

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The UK IPO's search tool allows you to filter results by date, status, or patent type, which makes it easier to focus on the most relevant documents. You can also access detailed PDF copies of published patent applications and granted patents for closer examination. This step is essential for preparing a robust patent application and avoiding potential infringement issues.

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For inventors who need guidance, the IPO also provides online support and tutorials to help you navigate the search system efficiently. If you prefer in-person assistance, your local Patent Library staff can help you conduct searches and interpret results, making it easier to ensure your invention is novel and patentable.

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By using the UK IPO's search tool, you can confidently assess whether your invention is already protected, identify potential challenges, and take the necessary steps to secure your patent rights before submitting an application. This proactive approach saves time, money, and reduces the risk of filing for a patent that may conflict with existing IP.

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ESPACENET AND THE EUROPEAN PATENT REGISTER

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Alongside the European Patent Register, Espacenet provides free access to more than 70 million patent documents from across the globe, spanning inventions and technological developments dating back to 1836. This makes it one of the most comprehensive tools for inventors, entrepreneurs and businesses seeking to research existing patents and assess the novelty of their ideas.

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With Espacenet, you can perform searches using multiple criteria, including keywords, patent classifications, inventor names, publication numbers, and filing dates. The Advanced Search feature allows you to refine your queries further - for instance, by entering “hair brush” in the title, abstract or keyword fields, you can identify inventions that may be similar to yours. This enables you to uncover prior art, evaluate the uniqueness of your invention and avoid potential conflicts with existing patents.

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Espacenet is particularly valuable for innovators who want to explore international patent activity. By reviewing patents filed in multiple countries, you can gain insights into technological trends, assess the competitive landscape and determine whether your invention has a realistic chance of being granted a patent in different jurisdictions. Using this platform effectively helps ensure that your patent application is robust, defensible, and strategically positioned for global protection.

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WIPO’S PATENTSCOPE DATABASE

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Patentscope, provided by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), offers free access to over 52 million patent documents, including nearly three million international patent applications and national collections from 38 participating authorities. This global database is an essential tool for inventors, businesses, and entrepreneurs who want to check whether their invention is already protected in multiple countries.

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Using Patentscope, you can search with three main methods: Simple Search, Advanced Search, and Field Combination Search. The Simple Search allows you to enter keywords to quickly identify relevant patents, while the Advanced Search enables complex queries using multiple keywords, Boolean operators, and field codes. The Field Combination Search offers targeted results by letting you focus on specific areas such as the title, abstract, description, or inventor. For example, if you have developed a new type of wearable device, you can enter precise keywords in the title or abstract fields to locate potentially similar patents worldwide.

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Patentscope is particularly useful for evaluating prior art, understanding global patent trends, and assessing the novelty of your invention. It also helps inventors identify potential infringement risks and competitive activity in international markets. By using Patentscope effectively, you can make informed decisions about patent filing strategies, licensing opportunities, and IP protection across multiple jurisdictions.

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VISIT YOUR LOCAL PATENT LIBRARY

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Patent Libraries, formerly known as Patent Information Centres, are located in major cities across the UK, including Aberdeen, Birmingham, Cambridge, Glasgow, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Northampton, Norwich, Nottingham, Plymouth, Portsmouth and Sheffield. These libraries provide invaluable support for inventors, start-ups, and businesses seeking to perform a free and thorough patent search.

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At a Patent Library, qualified staff can guide you through complex searches, helping you navigate IPO and EPO databases effectively. They can also offer advice on intellectual property strategy, assist with novelty searches, and provide access to technical and patent literature that may be difficult to find online. While there may be a small fee for printing or copying documents, the expertise available at these libraries ensures that inventors can accurately assess whether their invention is unique and patentable.

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Beyond searches, Patent Libraries often provide additional services such as bespoke training sessions, business information advice, and referrals to specialist IP service providers. Many libraries also offer resources for monitoring current patent applications, evaluating the competitive landscape, and understanding trends in your industry. By visiting your local Patent Library, you gain access to professional support and tools that can significantly improve the quality and effectiveness of your patent search, giving you greater confidence before filing a patent application.

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WHY PERFORMING A PATENT SEARCH IS ESSENTIAL

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Performing a comprehensive patent search before filing is a critical step to ensure your invention is truly original, minimise the risk of infringing existing patents and make informed decisions about your patent strategy. By leveraging free resources such as the UK IPO's search tool, Espacenet, WIPO’s Patentscope and support from your local Patent Library, you can thoroughly evaluate prior art, identify similar technologies and refine product designs before submission.

 

Conducting a detailed search not only strengthens your patent application but also provides confidence that your invention is protectable. This approach not only positions you for successful patent registration, potential licensing opportunities and effective commercialisation, it reduces the risk of costly disputes or delays in the future.

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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.