Learn about the patent search engines and databases, and the top 5 Patent Search Engines that you can use
If you’re planning to file a patent, protecting your ideas is crucial. Before proceeding, conducting a thorough search using reliable patent search engines can confirm whether your idea is truly unique. In this blog we will cover five key databases to help you with patent searches in India: Google Patents, The Lens Org, PatentScope, Design View, and Vakilsearch’s Patent Search Tool. These resources are invaluable for companies, inventors, and legal professionals.
Why Conduct a Patent Search?
Conducting a patent search is vital for businesses and inventors to make informed decisions. It serves several important purposes, such as:
- Verifying the uniqueness of your idea before filing a patent.
- Assessing potential risks before launching a product.
- Protecting your intellectual property from competitors.
Using reliable data from trusted patent search engines helps avoid costly mistakes and enhances long-term strategies.
What is a Patent Searching Database, and how does it work?
A patent searching database is an online resource that assists inventors, intellectual property specialists, and legal professionals in conducting efficient and accurate patentability searches. These databases are essential for identifying prior art (existing patents) and verifying the novelty of an idea.
By leveraging these databases, users can quickly analyze relevant findings, generate comprehensive reports, and streamline the process of securing a patent.
Five Patent Searching Tools That You Should Know About
Here are five free tools that can simplify your patent search:
Google Patents
Google Patents, launched in 2006, is a comprehensive and user-friendly patent search engine. It allows users to search for patents across various jurisdictions, including the United States, Europe, China, Japan, and Korea. With a database containing over 87 million patents, Google Patents is an excellent tool for those looking to protect their innovations.
Key Features:
- Free access to an extensive database of global patents.
- Simple interface for quick searches using keywords.
- Supports searches by publication date, inventor name, and patent number.
Vakilsearch Free Patent Search Tool
Vakilsearch offers a specialized Indian patent search tool designed for businesses and inventors in India. As a leader in legal, tax, and compliance services, Vakilsearch provides comprehensive support to protect your intellectual property. Our tool helps verify the originality of ideas before filing a patent, ensuring legal protection. Vakilsearch also offers end-to-end assistance, from initial searches to filing a provisional patent.
Key Features:
- User-friendly interface tailored for the Indian market.
- Access to a vast database of Indian patents.
- Expert consultation for patent filing and protection.
The Lens Org
The Lens Org is a widely recognized digital patent search database that patent lawyers and intellectual property professionals rely on. It integrates information from leading global patent authorities like the USPTO, WIPO, and the EPO. With access to historical patent data and a range of metadata search options, it’s a valuable tool for exploring patents worldwide.
Key Features:
- Historical data from multiple jurisdictions.
- Advanced metadata search options, such as publication dates and patent families.
- Visualization tools for graphical representation of patent families.
PatentScope
PatentScope, managed by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), provides free access to Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) applications and national patent documents. This database offers advanced search options to filter results by publication date, applicant name, and classification, making it ideal for comprehensive patent searches.
Key Features:
- Free access to PCT applications and national patents.
- Advanced search filters for precise results.
- Multilingual support for a global audience.
Design View
Design View, launched by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), is a free database for searching design patents. With over 16 million registered designs from 72 national offices, it offers basic and advanced search functionalities and side-by-side design comparisons, making it a valuable resource for patent professionals.
Key Features:
- User-friendly interface with basic and advanced search options.
- Side-by-side comparisons of design patents.
- Available in 37 languages, supporting global searches.
Conclusion
Before filing a patent, conducting a thorough search is essential to safeguard your intellectual property and avoid potential infringements. Leveraging tools like Vakilsearch’s patent search service can provide the confidence you need to move forward. Vakilsearch offers end-to-end assistance in securing patents, ensuring your innovations are well-protected. Ready to protect your idea? Reach out to Vakilsearch today and get expert assistance in filing your patent efficiently and accurately!
