Espacenet

Espacenet is a patent search system provided by the European Patent Office (EPO). It offers free access to a vast collection of patent documents from around the world, including published patent applications and granted patents. Espacenet allows users to search for patent information using various criteria such as keywords, inventor names, applicant names, publication dates, and patent classifications.

Espacenet's database encompasses patent data from over 100 countries and patent authorities, making it a comprehensive resource for researchers, inventors, businesses, and anyone seeking information on prior art, technological advancements, and patent ownership. Users can access the original patent documents in various formats, including PDF.

The system provides tools for analyzing search results, such as patent family identification, statistical overviews, and visualization of patent landscapes. This enables users to understand the scope of patent protection in specific technical fields and identify potential infringement risks or licensing opportunities. Espacenet is regularly updated with new patent publications to ensure its information remains current. The EPO also offers training resources and support to help users effectively utilize the platform.