Research Methods
Our research methods are based on time-tested methodology. Our searching often starts with complex keyword strategies in an effort to locate the most relevant US Classification areas. Our efforts are then shifted to patent-by-patent reviews of the relevant US Classifications. Our results are never based solely upon keyword searches. In addition, our searches are conducted onsite at the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in Alexandria, VA. Our researchers conduct the searches on the Examiner's Automated Search Tool (EAST) computer system, which is the same system accessed by Patent Examiners when conducting their searches. Since we are conducting the searches onsite at the USPTO, we are able to access Examiners in the art in order ascertain search fields for a subject matter if needed.
Searchers
Our search staff is comprised of a team of experienced, professional patent researchers whose objectives are to locate the most-relevant prior art available. Our fulltime employees possess a combined total of over 60 years of fulltime patent research experience. Some of our searchers are previous patent examiners and/or are patent agents registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.