Patent Search

What is a patent search?

A patent search is performed for the purpose of finding the most relevant existing U.S. Patents and published U.S. Patents to your invention (referred to as “prior art”) and is typically conducted in the early stages of the application process by an independent patent search firm. Inventors who have already filed a patent application may still utilize InventionHome’s design and/or marketing program.

Why is a patent search important?

Informed Decision

A patent search can help an inventor make a more informed decision on whether or not to move forward with an idea. The search is primarily focused on determining whether a patent on a similar invention has already been issued or published with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Shows Commitment

Taking steps to protect your idea shows companies that you have a higher level of commitment and are serious about the idea. Conducting a search is part of the licensing process and the first step in our 3 step process.

Who conducts the patent search?

Patent searches should typically be conducted by professional patent search firms or registered patent attorneys / agents who understand how to perform a proper search. InventionHome utilizes independent, registered patent attorneys/agents to conduct all patent searches. Although patent searching is a valuable step in the process, it is important to understand that it can never guarantee with certainty that your invention will or will not be approved by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.