The search for anteriority on the utility model : is a process of verifying whether a utility model is already protected by an existing patent. This makes it possible to determine whether a utility model can be patented and if intellectual property rights are available.
Anteriority research process:
- Define the utility model wishing to be patented;
- Search the databases: such as the European Patent Office (OEB); the Patent and Brands of the United States (USPTO) office; The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPI);
- Use research tools: such as similarity search algorithms; patent classifications;
- Analyze the results: to determine if an existing patent already protects a model of utility;
- Evaluate the risks: the risks of conflicts with existing patents to decide on the pursuit or dispossession.
