Overview of Indian Patent Search

A patent search is the first step in the patent application process. It involves searching through patent databases to check whether any existing patents are similar to the applicant's invention or innovation. This step is crucial because it:

• Ensures that the applicant’s patent is unique.
• Increases the chances of registration.
• Helps avoid rejection due to similarity with an existing patent.

A registered patent grants the patent holder exclusive rights over their innovation. However, if the invention is found to be similar to a pre-existing patent, the patent office may reject the application.

What is InPASS?

In India, a patent search can be conducted using the Indian Patent Search System (InPASS).

• Introduced in 2015, InPASS replaced its predecessor IPAIRS (Indian Patent Information Retrieval System).
• It allows users to search patents using wildcards and Boolean operators.
• InPASS is currently the most advanced database for conducting a patent search in India.

Importance of Patent Search

1. Saves Time and Money

   • A patent search helps inventors determine whether similar products or innovations already exist.
   • This allows them to proceed accordingly, avoiding unnecessary expenses and efforts.

2. Protects from Infringement

   • Organizations must ensure their innovation does not infringe on any existing patents.
   • This helps avoid legal disputes and financial penalties.

3. Product Development

   • A patent search enables companies to analyze competitors' product designs.
   • Identifying flaws or gaps in existing technology allows businesses to improve and innovate.

4. Cost and Validity

   • A thorough patent search helps assess the value and validity of a patent.
   • This is crucial when deciding to sell or buy a patent.

5. Invalid Patents

   • A patent search provides information on expired or invalid patents.
   • Such inventions can then be used freely without paying royalties.

6. Understanding Trends

   • Patent searches help reveal current technological trends.
   • This guides innovators in developing products that align with market demand.

7. Patent Portfolio

   • A patent search assists in analyzing a company's patent portfolio.
   • It provides insights into which patents a company owns and their strategic value.

Documents for InPASS Patent Search

• The InPASS Patent Search does not require users to upload any documents.
• It is easily accessible and free to use for browsing the database.
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Procedure for Patent Search Through InPASS

Step 1: Visit the InPASS Website

• The patent researcher needs to log on to the InPASS website by visiting ipindia.gov.in.
• This website keeps track of all registered patents in India.

Selecting the Criteria

After accessing the InPASS website, users must choose from two search categories:

1. Granted Patents – Patents that have been officially granted a permit.
2. Published Applications – Patents that have been published in a journal and are awaiting objections.

• Users have the option to search in both categories simultaneously.
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Parameters for Patent Search

While searching for patents, users can filter results based on various parameters, including:

• Date of Application (selectable range)
• Title of the Patent
• Abstract
• Claims against the Patent
• Description of the Patent
• Application Number
• Patent Number (for granted patents)
• Name of the Applicant
• Name of the Inventor
• Country of the Inventor
• Address of the Inventor
• Filing Office
• International Patent Classification (IPC)
• PCT Application
• PCT Publication Number
• Field of Invention
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Keyword Search

• The applicant must create a list of keywords relevant to their invention.
• The search will return patents that contain the keywords in their title, abstract, claims, description, or applicant details.
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Displaying Results

• Results are displayed in two columns:
  • Left Column: Shows application number, patent number, title, and status.
  • Right Column: Displays details such as specification, abstract, and bibliographic data.
• Users can browse up to 1,000 results, with 25 results displayed per page.
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Applicant Name Search

• Users can enter an applicant's name in the search bar to view all published and granted patents under that name.
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Inventor Name Search

• Similar to applicant name search, users can enter an inventor’s name to retrieve patents associated with that inventor.
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Patent E-Registration

• Users can check their patent registration status by entering the patent number in the E-register tab.
• The database displays details like status, renewal date, and description.
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Patent Application Status

• Users can check their patent application status by entering the application number under the application status tab.
• The database provides details such as application number, filing date, title, and attached documents.
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Additional Advisory

• It is recommended that applicants also conduct searches on international patent databases, such as the WIPO database, to ensure a comprehensive patent search.

How Fastzeal Can Assist You with InPASS Patent Search

1. Expert Consultation – Our professionals will connect with you and schedule a consultation to understand your patent-related requirements.
2. Query Resolution – During the consultation, we will address all your concerns and provide clarity on the patent search process.
3. Accurate Search Results – Our experts will conduct a thorough InPASS patent search and deliver precise results.
4. Guidance and Support – We provide step-by-step assistance and expert advice to help you navigate the patent registration process efficiently.