UW Engineering Library Patent Searching Guide
PTRC's 7 Step Strategy:
STEP 1: Brainstorm Terms Describing Your Invention
STEP 2: Access and Review Cooperative Patent Classification Schema Using USPTO’s Website Site Search Feature
STEP 3: Review Classification Definition Linked to the CPC Classification You Selected
STEP 4: Retrieve and Review Issued Patents Using the CPC Classification You Selected
STEP 5: Conduct In-Depth Review of Patents You Selected Based on Their Front-Page Information
STEP 6: Retrieve and Review Published Patent Applications Using the CPC Classifications You Identified
STEP 7: Options for Broadening Your Search