PATENT SEARCH MAPPING & ANALYSIS
Patent Search
Patent searches help you manage your intellectual property by providing a complete picture of existing inventions and technologies. They identify relevant prior art and potential conflicts or overlaps with existing inventions/technologies to assess the patentability of inventions and reduce the risk of infringement. Patent searches are categorized into different types, each with a specific purpose, to address multiple objectives.
Our Key Patent Search services include:
Novelty/Patentability Search| Validity and Invalidity Search| Nullity Search| Freedom-to-Operate (FTO) Search| Infringement Search
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NOVELTY/PATENTABILITY SEARCH
A Novelty or Patentability Search is a pivotal step in the patent application process, designed to determine whether an invention is genuinely new and non-obvious in light of existing prior art. This search involves an in-depth examination of various sources, including previously granted patents, pending patent applications, scientific publications, technical literature, and other publicly accessible documents. The goal is to identify any disclosures that could potentially impact the patentability of the invention. By meticulously evaluating these resources, inventors and legal professionals can assess the feasibility of securing a patent while identifying possible hurdles at an early stage. This proactive approach not only ensures that the invention meets the stringent criteria of novelty and non-obviousness but also maximizes the chances of filing a successful patent application.
At we combine technical expertise and legal precision to conduct comprehensive Novelty/Patentability Searches, offering detailed and actionable insights. Our approach not only uncovers all relevant prior art but also provides a deeper understanding of the technological landscape, helping you navigate the complexities of intellectual property protection with confidence.
VALIDITY SEARCH
A Validity Search is conducted to assess and evaluate whether an existing patent meets all legal requirements—such as novelty, non-obviousness, and adequate disclosure—to be enforceable. This type of search is often undertaken in response to patent infringement allegations, and as part of due diligence during mergers and acquisitions. The primary objective of a validity search is to review patent claims and identify prior art that may have been overlooked by the patent examiner during the initial examination process— ensuring that the patent holds up under legal scrutiny. Such prior art, if discovered, can potentially challenge or invalidate the patent’s enforceability.
On the contrary, and is aimed at challenging a patent’s enforceability by rigorously identifying prior art and other factors that may undermine its legal standing. This search is typically conducted to develop a defense strategy at the time of countering infringement claims, and proving a competitor’s patent is weak; and during due diligence, before investments or licensing negotiations, to assess potential vulnerabilities.
By thoroughly examining the patent’s claims against relevant patent and non-patent literature, we at Khurana and Khurana help clients:
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Challenge the validity of a patent to avoid or mitigate infringement liabilities.
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Assess the patent’s strength and commercial potential before entering licensing or acquisition deals.
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Prevent costly licensing fees by determining if the patent can be invalidated on legal or technical grounds.
FREEDOM TO OPERATE SEARCH
A Freedom to Operate (FTO) Search is an indispensable investigation aimed at determining whether a specific product, process, or technology can be safely developed, manufactured, and commercialized without infringing upon existing patents or intellectual property rights. This search involves an exhaustive review of patents, pending applications, legal documents, and even non-patent literature related to the invention.
The key objective of an FTO search is to identify any existing/potential patent rights that might pose infringement risks, thereby empowering businesses to mitigate these risks before committing resources to development or commercialization.
At Khurana & Khurana, we specialize in conducting detailed FTO searches and providing tailored solutions. Our unique Product-to-Patent Mapping feature includes a thorough investigation of active and live patents that may overlap with the Key Features of your product, process, or technology. This approach ensures you are fully informed and equipped to move forward without legal uncertainties.
INFRINGEMENT SEARCH
An Infringement Search, also known as a Right-to-Use Search, is a critical investigation conducted to determine whether a specific product, process, or technology infringes upon any existing patents. This type of search focuses on analysing patent claims to identify any overlap with the features or functionalities of the new product or process. The primary goal of an infringement search is to avoid potential legal disputes by ensuring that the new product does not violate another entity’s intellectual property rights. This proactive measure is particularly crucial before the launch of a new product, as it helps companies mitigate the risk of costly litigation, market withdrawals, or damage to reputation.
To complement an infringement search, an Evidence of Use (EOU) analysis is often conducted. This analysis involves a direct comparison between the patented claims and the product or process in question, providing a clear assessment of potential risks.
At Khurana & Khurana, we excel in conducting meticulous Infringement Searches to protect your innovations from legal complications. Our comprehensive reports provide actionable results, ensuring your product is ready for market entry with complete compliance and confidence. With our proven expertise in patent searches spanning validity, FTO, and infringement, we offer customized solutions tailored to your specific requirements. Our in-depth analyses, coupled with advanced mapping techniques, empower businesses to safeguard their intellectual property and make informed strategic decisions.
Nullity Search
A Nullity search is an exhaustive investigation conducted to invalidate an entire claim set, or a specific embodiment or set of patent claims— aimed at avoiding or addressing an ongoing patent litigation. A nullity search is conducted mostly during a patent infringement proceeding to challenge the claims or rights of a patent for which an infringement suit has been filed in a Civil Court.
For conducting a Nullity Search, we at Khurana and Khurana assign a team of technical subject matter expert(s) (TSMEs) to the client. These experts not only perform an extensive search to invalidate the claim set but also actively assist attorneys in interpreting the claims. Throughout the process, our professionals are available to support Patent Attorneys and Litigators with additional searches and preparing formal documents, technical disclosures, and mapping sheets. We also assist with depositions, preparing document requests, requests for admission, and interrogatories, among other similar activities, providing support at every stage during the entire process.
STATE OF THE ART SEARCH
A State-of-the-Art Search provides a thorough and detailed overview of the current technological landscape in a specific field. This search delves into patents, patent applications, scientific literature, technical papers, and other relevant sources to identify the latest advancements and ongoing R&D efforts. This search is particularly beneficial for R&D teams, IP strategists, and businesses looking to assess the current state of technology, track innovation trends, and evaluate competition. By leveraging State-of-the-Art Searches, companies can gain insights into industry developments, identify key players, and refine their research direction to ensure their innovations align with market trends. The primary objective of this search is to focus on understanding what already exists to inform decision-making.
At Khurana & Khurana, we conduct tailored State-of-the-Art Searches to provide businesses with actionable intelligence, helping them stay informed, competitive, and strategically positioned in their industry.
Patent Mapping
Patent mapping helps identify emerging technical trends, key industry players, and innovation hotspots, while also revealing gaps, or “white spaces,” where new opportunities exist. By visualizing patent data, this process provides a clear roadmap for research and development (R&D), helping organizations refine their innovation strategies and optimize planned patent filings to maximize protection and market advantage.
At Khurana & Khurana, our Patent Mapping service transforms complex patent data into strategic insights, enabling businesses to make informed decisions. Through our Key Feature Mapping approach, we align search results with the unique aspects of your invention, ensuring it is positioned for success in a competitive landscape. Our structured approach to Patent Mapping empowers businesses to stay ahead of competitors, identify licensing or collaboration opportunities, and strategically expand their patent portfolios.
📩 To avail our Patent Search and Mapping Services, please contact us at info@khuranaandkhurana.com.