Patent Research

"The breadth and depth of expertise among the team of searchers at CPA Global is such that we were always confident that they could handle a search in whatever area we needed. The results were consistently first class," Chris R. Hilberg Partner, Oppenheimer Wolff & Donnelly LLP

Patent research provides a fundamental step in the process of filing patent applications, managing a patent portfolio and identifying competitive developments. Organizations do not always have the necessary resources, tools, and time to conduct thorough patent searches. That is why many choose to outsource their prior art searching to an experienced and trusted provider.

CPA Global offers the highest quality patent research having conducted over 50,000 patent search projects becoming one of the largest searching entities around the world.

CPA Global has more than 100 patent searchers located across three continents available to our clients. These experienced researchers are experts in classifications, keywords, patent terminology and also have deep technical expertise in areas such as:

• Biotechnology
• Chemical
• Mechanical
• Computer Science
• Electrical
• Business Methods

At CPA Global we ensure that all patent searches conform to specific guidelines and procedures. Our standard operating procedure includes the development of a thorough understanding of the client's desired search feature, establishment of pertinent classifications to be searched and definition of a search strategy using the best available databases of patent and/or non-patent literature (including an internal, proprietary database of known references). This is followed by an exhaustive search and development of a report of findings which undergoes final review and quality assurance before delivery to the client.

We can tailor the effort spent on each patent search to meet particular client requirements, and will check back when necessary to ensure we get the emphasis right. Our search reports cover the scope of the invention, the databases and sources utilised, search strategies and patent classifications. Relevant references are highlighted and each report comes with a detailed analysis of each patent reference.

CPA Global's patent search services include:

Novelty/Patentability/Pre-examination Search: A review of prior art to determine novelty and to help you make more informed patent application decisions. Searches include US and foreign patents, published applications searches, and non-patent references.

State-of-the-Art/Landscape Search: Provides a landscape of patent and non-patent literature. Results can be applied to patent portfolio development, competitive scoping, and research decisions within a particular technology area.

Freedom-to-Operate/Right to Use Search: Often done in conjunction with a product announcement, this type of search provides an extensive review of patent literature to identify obstacles and barriers within a patent jurisdiction.

Validity/Invalidity Search: Search results can be used both offensively and defensively in litigation or licensing disputes. This type of search is exhaustive and focuses on the claims of the patent.

Accelerated Examination: Enables faster prosecution (usually within 12 months) of your patent at the US Patent and Trademark Office. Tasks include an extended novelty search along with preparation of an Accelerated Examination report.

Design Search (US Only): Search of patents granted for the ornamental design of a functional item.

Opposition Search: An extended novelty search that assists in submitting prior art against other filed patent applications.

Patent Watch: To determine if newly issued patents are notable from an infringement, competitive or licensing perspective.

Chemical Search: Leveraging specialized resources and databases, provides a review of patent and non-patent literature related to chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and often chemical structures.