Search can help both in the preparation and filing of an application for an invention, utility model or trademark, and before launching a new product on the market or solving scientific or research projects. Searches can be performed in national and international databases.

Patent search

• Patentability search – The aim of the search is to determine whether a given invention or technical solution is patentable, i.e. whether it meets the conditions of novelty and inventive step. It is advisable to conduct the search before preparing and filing a patent or utility model application.
• Freedom-to-operate search – The aim of the search is to determine whether a given product or process does not infringe a patent or utility model valid in the selected territory. It is advisable to conduct the search before starting production or launching the given product/process on the market.
• Prior art search – The aim of the search is to map the state of the art in a given field of technology and identify companies or individuals active in this field. The search can be carried out, for example, when solving research tasks or when purchasing know-how or licenses.

Trademark search

• Prior trade mark search – The aim of the search is to find older identical or similar trademarks that could prevent the registration of your own mark or its use. It is advisable to carry out the search before filing a trademark application or before starting to use a new mark.

A legal status search

• A legal status search is a check to see whether a given patent or utility model, trademark or industrial design is valid.