Other Useful Guides & Databases
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Google PatentsContains PDFs of patents and applications. Google Patents claims to contain all US patents, but 3rd party searches show that patent coverage is not exhaustive.
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PatentScopePatent search engine of the World Intellectual Property Organization. Countries and data ranges included can be found at http://patentscope.wipo.int/search/en/help/data_coverage.jsf
Assignment
You have a GREAT idea that will make swimming pools safer and more versatile: a sliding cover that is rigid and load-bearing when in place. It’s compact when stored and since it’s rigid, this cover would also be multipurpose, perhaps used as outdoor patio or dancing space. The sky's the limit!
Using the 6.5 step search strategy, answer the following:
1. What CPC code(s) could you use to search for prior art related to this idea?
2. Based on your prior art search, could you patent this invention? Why?
3. Could you develop, produce, and sell this invention in the US without infringing on someone else’s IP rights? Why?
Library Session Materials
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USPTOThe United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
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PatFT - USPTO Patent Full-Text and Image DatabaseThis is the USPTO's free, online searchable database of granted U. S. patents. Coverage is from 1790 to the present.
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Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) SearchSearch the CPC system for classifications that can be used for an advanced patent search.
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6.5-Step U.S. Patent Search Strategy GuideA strategy for searching U.S. patents to locate and evaluate relevant prior art.
Recent Patent News
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Utility Patents in the News: GreatPlateIn which a flying disc that becomes a plate is patented: US D781,659
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Design Patents in the News: Skechers ShoesSkechers and Eliya Fight Over Shoe Design Patents Again
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Plant Patents in the News: University of FloridaBlueberry farmers: Taxpayer-funded University of Florida helping the competition in Mexico.
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