How to Locate Patents
Finding the details of a patent is difficult if the patent number isn't listed on the item in question. The reason is that patents aren't classified by an invention's name but buy what the invention does. With a little research and online tools, you can find patent information. Here are some tips on how to locate patents.
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Instructions
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Short Method for Finding a Patent
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Check the item you're wanting patent information about. Many of them will list the U.S. patent number on them.
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Search Google Patent. Input the patent number of the item into Google Patent search and click "Search Patents." You will receive a PDF document.
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Search the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in person or online. You can get more details about a patent by searching the patent number at USPTO, including the type of patent and whether there was a reissue.
Long Method for Finding a Patent without Patent Number
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Make a list of what you know about the patent. It's much easier to search for a patent if you know something about it, such as the inventor, patent holder's name or the application or issue date of the patent.
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Make a list of the functional terms of the item. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office doesn't list patents by their names but rather by their function. Make a list of keywords that describe what the item does.
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Visit the US Patent and Trademark office online (USPTO.gov). Chose the option to search for patents. The "Quick Search" allows you to search based on two terms whereas the "Advanced Search" allows you to search terms with other known facts, such as the name of the patent owner or date of issue.
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Find the classification. If you don't know anything about the patent, use your list of functional terms to find the classification of the item. A "Quick Search" can lead to a long list of similar items and their classifications. Better yet, visit the USPTO's classification page to search for classification information.
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Keep adding keywords that describe your item. Most searches yield hundreds of results. By adding additional keywords to your search, you can narrow your options down until you get a few that match your item. Once you have found your item, you should be able to click to get the details. Otherwise write down the patent number and use the search by patent number option.
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Tips & Warnings
Depending on where your keywords take you, you may need to start over or backtrack if your results don't match what you're searching for. Using different keyword combinations can help take you in the right direction for your item.
