How to apply examiner search strategies in Espacenet. A case study

Abstract

This article presents a case study for a patentability search in Espacenet, to demonstrate an EPO examiner's search strategy. It is shown how to structure and refocus a search in Espacenet, although it has to be kept in mind that Espacenet does not offer all features the highly sophisticated search tools of examiners have. It is explained how to set up a search table and how to find the appropriate classification using Espacenet. The search table helps to structure and prioritise the search. A complete search strategy is not only about finding novelty destroying documents, but should also include searching documents relevant for inventive step. It is demonstrated how to use the problem-solution-approach to refocus the search towards inventive step.