The best way to qualify if your invention is unique and novel is through a patent search. A thorough search will help determine the potential scope a patent will have.

How to patent search
You can conduct your own preliminary patent search online or by using search software. Here's the procedure:

  1. Identify the terminology used in the field of your invention. Patent searching is best done with word searches. You'll have to try various words to describe your inventive matter.
  2. Do a Boolean search. The best way to narrow your search is to use the Boolean (pronounced "boo-lee-in") methodology. It allows you to use more than one word at a time. For example, you can use two words "glue" and "hinge". The USPTO web site shows you how. The software program PatentHunter simplifies and speeds up this process.
  3. Read related patents and you'll find additional words being used. For example, one of your search terms is "glue", you'll find others that should be searched as well, like paste, adhesive, joint compounds, adjoining means and so on. While searching the word "glue" jot down the other words and phrases you find. The Patent Search Handbook walks you though the steps to do this.
  4. Download relevant patents. The more important ones you'll be referencing in your patent application. Some sites allow you to download images at no cost if you download and install their software. You may also purchase patents from the USPTO and Delphion in pdf at a cost of $2-$5. If you use a software program such as PatentHunter, all downloaded patents are free.

No matter where you search, there is no exact science to using the various web sites...only some experience required.

Other Search Considerations.
Beware, don't overlook the following:

  1. Prior art search. Unpatented prior art such as existing products will obviate patent protection. Do a prior art search.
  2. Patentability Opinions. Licensees may not take you seriously without a legal opinion.
  3. Invention promotion companies. Unfortunately, the patent searches we've seen are inadequate. You'd be wise to start over.
 

Searching Insight:
Once you've become an expert in your field, you'll be searching less and less. In fact, you'll be creating the state-of-the-art. What is there to search if you are searching your own inventions and patents?

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