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Patent Searches

How to conduct a patent search, legal references and classifications, free online patent search databases, and professional search providers.

Patent Searching 101

Step to step guides to searching for patents online using the inventor's name, keywords, or patent numbers.

Quick Tutorial - "How To" Conduct A Patent Search

Outlines patent searching on one page.

Patent and Trademark Depository Library

A Patent and Trademark Depository Library or PTDL is a library which is designated by the USPTO to house copies of US patents and trademarks. Patents and trademarks may be searched in person at the PTDLs.

PTDL Resources

A list of online classifcation systems, databases, and other materials. The list also outlines a suggested procedure for conducting a patent search with the USPTO.

United States Patent and Trademark Office

List of all visitable PTDL libraries or use one of the Patent Full-Text and Full-Page Image Databases. The Full-Text Database now offers all US patents issued since 1790.
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