Scenario

You have an idea how to invent a portable ab/back exercise machine that uses hydraulic resistance. The idea came to you when you learned about the machines used by the Curves women's gym franchise. The resistance in that equipment is achieved with an automobile shock absorber. Before you spend time and money on the idea, a prior art search would be wise. You need to determine if the idea is already open to the public through a publication, patent, or patent application especially in the United States, Europe, and Japan but, technically, any where in the world.

Your job as an inventor is to do a preliminary search in the patent literature so you are familiar with similar inventions that yours can uniquely exceed or, at least, improve on. If the invention is patentable, a professional patent information specialist will need to conduct a thorough, in-depth search.

So, why reinvent the wheel. These guides will brief you on patents and searching for patents that have been grouped using classifications, the primary tools of the patent examiner who will determine patentability of your invention.

Screencast: Worldwide Patent Searching with esp@cenet

Screencast: Tips for searching U.S. Patents

Guide to basic U.S. patent searching (PDF)

Patent Basics and Definitions (PDF)