To dive deeper into the research process, our team developed the following layout as the most efficient and effective way to conduct a prior art search. This is based on feedback from our top Researchers, as well as our own experiences.

Non-patent literature (NPL) refers to any type of literature that is not a patent. NPL includes a wide range of literature that each brings unique value to a search project.

Each patent has a number of dates that can impact a patent’s role in a Study. For the Study patent, the dates dictate the timeframe of the Study and the range of dates that are available as prior art. For a submission, the dates determine whether the patent is eligible to be submitted.

Known Prior Art includes any piece of prior art relevant to the Study that has already been discovered, either through past searches or in the original application process. These references can help you understand the background of the Study and identify potential search terms.

The Study type determines the requirements of the research and other details such as the Reward.

Each research type demands a different approach. It impacts how you read the Study and prepare your search.