Freedom to Operate (FTO)
Effectual Services offers a comprehensive Freedom to Operate (FTO) service to ensure your innovations can move forward in the market without infringement concerns.
About the service
A "prior art search" refers to the process of systematically researching and identifying all relevant information, documents, and publicly available knowledge that existed before a particular invention or innovation.
The primary goal of a Patentability Search
The primary goal of a Patentability Search is to identify both patented and non-patented documents that could potentially jeopardize the patentability of the invention. The prior art uncovered in such a search also aids patent drafters in formulating claims that encompass the widest possible scope based on the identified prior art. Conducting a Patentability Search, often referred to as a Novelty Search, is crucial before submitting a patent application to ascertain the novelty of the invention.
This search holds significant importance because no one wants to invest significant resources in drafting and filing a patent application, only to have it rejected due to the discovery of a concept similar to the invention by the patent examiner. By performing a Patentability Search to uncover prior art, the inventor, patent attorney, or patent examiner can determine whether someone else has previously conceived the same idea. If the search reveals that a similar idea already exists, it allows for cost savings by either refraining from filing the application or by modifying and enhancing the idea to meet the patentability criteria.
Conducting a Novelty Search not only aids in assessing the likelihood of obtaining a patent but also provides valuable insights into the chances of the patent being granted. If the search indicates that the idea is novel and satisfies all patentability requirements, one can confidently proceed with filing the patent, knowing that it has a strong chance of being approved.
Considering the substantial costs associated with patent filing and prosecution, it is advisable to conduct a Patentability Search before initiating the patent application process.
Methodology
The Methodology of Patentability search involves broadly scoping, understanding, searching, analysis, and reporting.
Scope of the Project
The Patentability search project encompasses patents and published patent applications worldwide, focusing on content available in the English language and machine translation.
The Patentability search is conducted in three phases, following a structured approach :
Step 1
Understanding the Technology
In this initial phase, we immerse ourselves in the domain of interest, gaining a deep understanding of the technology.
Step 2
Searching
We perform a comprehensive search on patent and non-patent databases
Our search strategies encompass :
Keyword-based searching
Class-based searching, including IPC/USC/CPC classifications.
Assignee and inventor-based searching.
Citation searching, to identify related design patents.
For patents, we harness databases like Orbit (from Questel, covering ~100 jurisdictions)., Derwent Innovation (covering ~100 jurisdictions worldwide), Google Patent, and Espacenet.
Non-patent literature searches cover pertinent databases such as ScienceDirect, PubChem, Pubmed, CiteseerX, Google, and Google Scholar, etc. to retrieve relevant prior art.
Step 3
Analysis and Reporting
We identify the relevant patent references on the basis of Title, Abstract, and Claims based screening.
Deliverable Format The final deliverable is a structured MS Word-based report. This report includes all references located during the search.
At Effectual Services, we follow a rigorous and systematic approach to Patentability searches, ensuring that our clients receive a comprehensive and well-organized report that aids informed decision-making and innovation in their respective domains.
Why Choose us?
There are several compelling reasons to choose Effectual Services for your Patentability search needs
"At Effectual, we have successfully delivered 2000+ Patentability search projects worldwide in various branches of science for gathering and analyzing the latest advancements and innovations in specific scientific fields such as biotechnology, chemistry, environmental science, computer science, medical science, material science, agricultural science, neuroscience, energy science, aeronautical engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering searches etc.
As a leader in IP services, we bring proven expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to your success.
"Unlock Innovation and Stay Ahead of the Curve! Choose Effectual Services for Your Patentability Search Today.
Join hands with us and experience the difference. Contact us today to explore how we can make your projects a resounding success !
Contact Us NowCase Study
Variable Gap Extractor
Challenge
A leading tire manufacturer partnered with Effectual Services to tackle a specific challenge. They ventured into the domain of tire mold technology with the goal of transforming the molding process. The client's aim was to unearth the latest advancements, patents, and scientific discoveries within tire mold technology, driven by the need to remain innovative and competitive in the tire market.
Solution
Our team executed a precise search for tire mold-related patents within specialized patent databases, harnessing advanced tools and databases dedicated to storing patents in the tire mold domain, including their associated patents. Employing the descriptors provided by the client, we conducted a similarity search to pinpoint patents aligning with their specified criteria.
Outcome
We identified numerous pertinent patents featuring tire mold concepts akin to those proposed by the client. This enabled the client to make educated decisions regarding potential modifications to their invention, ensuring avoidance of potential patent infringement while still attaining their desired performance attributes.
Time Saver for Drowsy Driving
Client : A leading vehicle manufacturing company was exploring innovative autonomous vehicle drowsiness detection. Additionally, they needed insights into time saver for the drowsiness detection in the vehicle.
Challenges
A prominent vehicle manufacturing company was in the process of exploring groundbreaking methods for detecting drowsiness in autonomous vehicles, with a particular focus on time-saving solutions. Our client was deeply interested in uncovering the most recent breakthroughs and innovations in drowsiness detection and faced several critical questions and challenge. The client aimed to pinpoint the latest advancements and patentable developments in vehicle drowsiness detection, seeking insights into, application techniques, and performance attributes.
Solution
Our team executed a focused search for drowsiness detection within patent databases, making use of advanced tools and dedicated databases housing relevant patents along with their associated ones. We leveraged the descriptors provided by the client to conduct a similarity search, identifying patents that aligned with their specified criteria.
Outcome
We identified numerous relevant patents that incorporated drowsiness detection ideas resembling those put forth by the client. This empowered the client to make informed choices about potential adjustments to their invention, ensuring they steer clear of potential patent infringement while still achieving their desired performance goals.
Client testimonial
FAQ
Patentability searches are carried out to verify the patent eligibility of an invention prior to the actual patent application. This process is commonly referred to as a pre-application search, as it is advisable for inventors to undertake this step before drafting and submitting the patent specification.
The primary motivation for conducting an extensive prior art patent search is to ensure the absence of any pre-existing inventions that closely resemble the proposed one. Patents are awarded to innovations that exhibit both novelty (uniqueness) and non-obviousness.
The Patentability search helps the clients to :
- Draft better claims with increased scope
- Strengthen the patent by identifying uncovered cases
- Understand the value and uniqueness of the invention
- Design the patent to work around competitors' inventions
The invention must be a patentable subject matter as defined by patent systems worldwide. The invention must be novel and different from prior art. The invention must not be obvious to the person skilled in the art, i.e. the invention must be different from what a person skilled in the art can do.
To secure a favorable market position and align your claims with elements of your concept that enhance patent eligibility and market appeal. This enables you to establish your Intellectual Property positioning, recognize and comprehend your competitors' innovations, and pinpoint additional avenues for potential growth.
Technology Trend Analysis
Analyze the latest advancements and trends within specific industries or technology sectors. This helps businesses stay competitive and align their strategies with emerging technologies.
Product Portfolio Assessment
Assess clients own product portfolios and compare them with competitors' offerings. This informs product development, innovation, and strategic decision-making.
