Have you worked on an invention that you believe is original and want to patent it? Then what we will explain in this post will be of great interest to you. In the field of innovation and research, the information contained in patents is essential for the development of new technologies and products. Before delving into our topic – the Patent Technology Reports (PTR) – it is advisable that you understand what “patent information” consists of. This term encompasses all the content published in patent documents and associated prosecution files. These documents compile technical, legal, and commercial information, presented in a standardized format that facilitates consultation.
The most relevant aspect is that much of this information is unique and not found in other sources, which makes patents an invaluable tool for researchers and companies.
The Spanish Patent and Trademark Office (OEPM) has over three decades of experience offering services related to patent information. Its team, composed of more than 150 experts in various branches of science and engineering, has advanced technological tools and international databases. For over 25 years, the OEPM has operated as an International Searching Authority under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). This supports the quality and confidentiality of the services it offers. In particular, the preparation of Patent Technology Reports, which we will describe below.
What are Patent Technology Reports (PTR) and what is their function?
Within the technological information services provided by the OEPM, Patent Technology Reports stand out for their usefulness and depth. Essentially, PTRs consist of detailed analyses of patent documents and non-patent literature related to a specific technology or project. These reports aim to provide an accurate and comprehensive overview of a technical field, helping companies and researchers make strategic decisions in their R&D activities.
Their utility is broad and versatile. For example, PTRs allow you to:
- Identify already developed technologies to avoid duplications and subsequent oppositions to patent registration. With this in mind, it is crucial to request them before starting the patent process.
- Evaluate the feasibility of patenting a new invention.
- Analyze technological trends and detect business opportunities.
- Similarly, they can facilitate technology transfer through the valuation of contracts.
- Prevent possible infringements of third-party rights.
- Explore public domain technologies that can be exploited without restrictions.
Unlike procedures related to the granting of patents, PTRs are not binding on the OEPM and function as an independent service that provides strategic value to its applicants.
Preparation and structure of PTRs
By the way, PTRs are developed on a customized basis, taking into account the specific needs of each applicant. The specialists at the OEPM work closely with the client to ensure that the documentary search is aligned with the stated objectives. For their preparation, the institution has globally covered tools and databases, as well as documentary collections from the main industrialized countries.
Specifically, the structure of these Patent Technology Reports follows a clear and detailed scheme:
- Technical object of the search. Describes the technical issue to be analyzed.
- Search profile. Includes the tools used, such as the International Patent Classification, keywords, and references to companies in the sector.
- Search result. Indeed, this section presents the most relevant documents retrieved, accompanied by copies of them.
- Commentary. Offers an analysis of the most significant content, explaining the steps followed during the search and facilitating the interpretation of the results.
- List of references. Provides an annex with related bibliographic references.
- Annexes. Finally, this part includes additional details, such as databases used and the explanation of technical terms.
Methodology for the preparation of Patent Technology Reports
Indeed, the creation of Patent Technology Reports (PTR) follows a meticulous process that ensures accurate and useful results for the applicant. Although there are slight variations depending on the type of report requested, the general procedure consists of several key stages:
- Initial analysis of the documentation. The first step is to carefully review the form and documentation provided by the client. This analysis allows verification of whether the information provided is sufficient to prepare the report. In particular, it is critical to understand the technical characteristics or the inventive concept to be analyzed, as well as the specific purpose of the report. When the documentation includes a set of claims, the process is simplified, as these clearly describe the main features of the technology or invention.
- Design and execution of the search strategy. At this stage, the most appropriate strategy for conducting the prior art search is defined. This design is based on three main pillars:
- Patent classifications. As mentioned, researchers use tools such as the International Patent Classification (IPC) and the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC). In addition, they resort to specific classifications such as the Japanese F-Index and FTERMS, when necessary.
- Keywords. For this, relevant terms in Spanish and English are selected, considering truncations and Boolean combinations. In specific cases, full-text searches are also performed in German and French.
- Sources of consultation. Similarly, the technicians investigate specialized databases of global scope, ensuring maximum coverage in the search for information.
How to request a Patent Technology Report and its cost
Interested parties can request Patent Technology Reports through different channels: in person at the OEPM Information Office, by email, by fax, or by postal mail. For this purpose, it is essential to use the official form, available in physical format at the office and in digital format on the OEPM website, in the Documentary Services section.
To facilitate obtaining a detailed report tailored to the user’s needs, it is important to provide as much information as possible about the technical issue of interest. However, it is advisable to seek the help of patent technicians, specialized lawyers, and official agents. They can advise and help you request the PTR, as well as offer valuable technical opinions to understand the outcome of the report.
Currently, the cost of an PTR is around €650.00 + VAT. If the report includes relevant documents, copies of these are attached at no additional cost. Other documents cited in the report can be consulted in the esp@cenet and OEPMPAT databases accessible from the OEPM website. Alternatively, copies of the documents can be requested by mail or fax, with an additional cost of €4.69 + VAT for patents and €1.43 + VAT for utility models.
This methodical and flexible approach ensures that PTRs provide high-value information. Undoubtedly, they facilitate strategic decision-making in research, development, and innovation projects.
ISERN manages Patent Technology Reports for you
With a history of over 100 years in the field of registration and protection of patents, trademarks, and intellectual property both in Spain and Europe, ISERN Patentes y Marcas is positioned as a leader in the sector.
Our team of highly qualified professionals accompanies you in each phase of the patent process, providing personalized advice and legal support, whether for individual or business projects. Once your patent is granted, we take care of monitoring possible unauthorized uses and defend your rights with determination and efficiency.
Before starting the procedure to patent an invention in Spain, we can help you manage Patent Technology Reports. This is a recommended step to identify existing similar developments and minimize risks of opposition. In this way, we optimize your time and resources, ensuring a more efficient process. Contact us and discover how we can help you. With 12 offices strategically located in the main cities of Spain, we are always close to offer you a comprehensive and reliable service.