Patent Number Lookup

Before applying for a patent for a new design, product, or invention, inventors may want to conduct a patent number lookup online to determine if a patent already exists for an invention similar to their own. This is one of the first steps inventors will want to take when determining whether or not to apply for a patent for their invention. Many inventors, especially first-time inventors, may not know how to conduct an online patent number search. Sometimes individuals will conduct an online patent number lookup to determine the date a product was invented and the person(s) responsible for the invention. There are several reasons why an individual may conduct a patent number search.

Searching for a patent has been made very simple by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). In the past, inventors had to search through mounds and mounds of paperwork to find a patent number. Now, finding a patent number is as simple as the click of the mouse. Individuals desiring to look up a patent can go to the USPTO's website and click on "search" under "patents" on the agency's homepage. Next, click on "patent number search." This will bring up a query search box, and the patent number can be entered into this box. Once the number has been entered, simply click on search. Patent numbers will be 7 numbers in length and may be comprised of both numbers and letters. For example, design patent numbers may begin with the letter "D" followed by 6 numbers.

A patent number search is advised before completing an application for a patent. If an invention too similar to the inventor's product or design has already been patented, the inventor may need to go back to the drawing board. If individuals have difficulty searching for patent numbers, an intellectual property law attorney will be able to provide assistance. These attorneys are well-versed in intellectual property law, which includes things such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks.