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Patent Validity & Invalidity Search Services: A Complete Guide | IIP Search

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In the competitive world of innovation, every granted patent represents both an asset and a potential risk. However, not all granted patents are legally invincible. This is where patent validity and invalidity search services play a crucial role. These searches help determine whether a patent can withstand legal challenges or if it might be invalidated by previously existing knowledge. This guide explores the importance, process, and strategic value of patent validity and invalidity searches, supported by examples, case studies, and practical insights for inventors, corporations, and legal teams. Understanding Patent Validity and Invalidity Searches A patent validity search is conducted to confirm the enforceability and strength of a granted patent. It verifies whether the patent claims can withstand scrutiny in court or during licensing negotiations. Typically, it’s performed after a patent is granted and before taking enforcement or commercialization actions. In contrast, a pa...

Design Patentability Search: An Ultimate Manual for Entrepreneurs and Innovators

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Introduction to Design Patentability Search Design patentability search is an essential preliminary for any individual looking to safeguard the appearance of a product. Different from utility patents that protect functional aspects, design patents only deal with the aesthetics of a product—how it appears, its shape, surface design, and special appearance. Before applying for protection, there must be a conclusion that the design is new and not already made public through earlier patents or in the public domain. Scanning existing designs through patent offices around the world and determining similarities that might affect qualification must be done. Skipping this step costs money. An unsuccessful application saves neither time nor money but can also compromise the intellectual property (IP) strategy of an enterprise. A thorough design patentability search strengthens applications, provides competitive insights, and ensures novelty. In today's fast-paced industries of consumer elec...

Why You Should Do a Patentability Search | 2025 Guide | IIP Search

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Innovation is the key to advancement. Whether you are an independent inventor, a new venture, or an established business, safeguarding your concepts is paramount. But prior to investing in a patent application, there is one important question to be resolved: Is your invention novel? That's where a patentability search is useful. This will help ensure that your invention stands a good chance of being patented as it identifies prior art that could undermine its novelty. In this 2025 guide, we will define what a patentability search is, why it's more important than ever, the advantages it presents, how it is done, and when to employ it. We will also include practical examples, case studies, and FAQs to illustrate its true-world relevance. What Is a Patentability Search? A patentability search , or novelty search, is the procedure of examining current patents and non-patent literature to determine whether an invention is novel and non-obvious. Patent offices such as the USPTO, EPO,...

Patentability vs Knockout Patent Search: Key Differences You Should Know | IIP Search

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When it comes to securing intellectual property rights, inventors and businesses face a critical decision—choosing the right type of patent search. Among the most common are the patentability search and the knockout patent search . At first glance, both may appear similar since they deal with prior art. However, their depth, cost, timing, and ultimate purpose differ significantly. This blog explores these differences in detail. We will look at when each type of search is most useful, highlight case studies, and address frequently asked questions. By the end, you’ll have clarity on which search best suits your needs. What Is a Patentability Search? A patentability search is an in-depth investigation into whether an invention meets the core requirements for patent protection— novelty , non-obviousness , and industrial applicability . This type of search goes beyond a surface-level check. It examines worldwide databases, including: Granted patents Published applications Sci...

Patentability Search vs. Freedom to Operate Search: Distinctive Differences

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Introduction All successful innovation endeavors are built on two cornerstones: novelty and freedom from the law. Inventors therefore need to pose two questions in advance. First, Can I get a patent? Second, Can I sell without infringing on others? A patentability search provides the first answer while a freedom to operate (FTO) search provides the second. While both entail searching patent databases, they differ quite radically in goals, timing, and deliverables. This in-depth guide examines every search, reveals unseen traps, demonstrates actual case studies, and provides actionable advice for converting insights into business successes. Patentability Search Explained A patentability search, or novelty search , examines published patents, applications, and non‑patent literature globally. Its function is straightforward but essential: ensure that an invention is new, non‑obvious, and useful under patent law. Why It Matters Inventors tend to fall in love with concepts. But first, the...

Trademark vs Patent Clearance Search – What Do You Need? | IIP Search

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Introducing a new product or brand is thrilling—until a lawyer's letter arrives at your desk. Patent Clearance searches prevent that nightmare from occurring. What each search does, when you need it, how to use it, and what can go wrong if you don't use it is explained in detail below in this guide. Why clearance searches are non-negotiable Expensive injunctions In June 2025 a Tokyo court suspended sales of Google's Pixel 7 phones following a finding of infringement of a South‑Korean patent; the suspension could affect future models as well.  Brand erasure Nestlé is attempting to cancel the "Seattle Strong" trademark just one year after registration, demonstrating how quickly a grassroots brand can be pulled into a battle with a multinational.  Confidence of the investor VCs regularly check IP risks; an uncleared mark or product can ruin a round of funding. Clearance is less expensive than litigation and allows you to do more growing rather than attendin...