Patentability searching for biomaterial and related polymers Original Research Article

The understanding of the technical aspects of biomaterials as well as the understanding of the polymer structures and their characteristics are requirements for a searcher in the field of biomaterials and related polymers. Faced with an increasing number of sources of information, e.g. patents, non-patent literature, internet citations, internal databases, external databases, patent office examiners are challenged with the constant need to develop a search strategy in order to achieve the most efficient and complete search. Thoroughness and persistence are critical when it comes to search in this technical field. It is no exaggeration to say that a good searcher will have to use competitive intelligence tactics, checking new databases, new product announcements and technical literature for evidence or prior art. It is therefore crucial for patent office examiners to structure the way in which they develop their search strategy in the context of this broadening of available public information.