How to conduct a free Patent Search

Before applying for a patent, it’s essential to perform a patent search to determine whether your product idea or technology has already been patented. You don’t need to pay for this service. You just need to set aside an hour or two.

There are four primary resources for conducting a free basic patent search. Additionally, you can visit your local Patents Library for more assistance.

Ipsum

The IPO’s free online service, Ipsum, allows you to check the status and access data on all UK patent applications. You can obtain copies of documents from published patent applications filed after January 1, 2008.

With Ipsum, you can view current patent information, identify classifications and search fields used, and submit observations regarding patentability prior to a patent being granted (under Section 21 Observations).

However, to use Ipsum effectively, you need the application or publication number. Once you have this information, you can access details such as application number, publication number, application status, filing date, and inventor information.

Searchable Patents Journal

You can search the Searchable Patents Journal for new UK patent applications from 2006 onwards. To perform a search, select either “UK Applications Published” or “UK Applications Granted,” choose your date range, and enter your keywords in the “refine” box, then press submit.

Espacenet

Espacenet and the European Patent Register provide free access to over 70 million patent documents globally, covering inventions and technical developments from 1836 to today.

Searching in Espacenet allows you to use multiple parameters, including patent classification and keywords. For example, if you've invented a new “hair brush,” you can use the Advanced Search feature to enter “hair brush” in the title, abstract, or keyword fields to find relevant patents.

Patentscope

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) offers the Patentscope database, which contains over 52 million patent documents, including nearly three million international patent applications and national collections from 38 participating authorities.

You can search using three main methods :

Simple Search : Enter keywords across six fields for relevant results.
Advanced Search : Combine an unlimited number of keywords with field codes and Boolean expressions for a detailed search.
Field Combination Search : Conduct targeted searches using specific criteria in any field, such as title, abstract, or description.

Your Local Patent Library

Another option is to visit a Patent Library (formerly known as Patent Information Centres) in Aberdeen, Birmingham, Cambridge, Glasgow, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Northampton, Norwich, Nottingham, Plymouth, Portsmouth, and Sheffield

These libraries offer qualified staff to assist you with a free search. Note that charges may apply for copies of patent documents.

Most Patent Libraries provide :