Structure Search

A structure search is in gerneral terms aimed at finding a specific spatial arrangement of molecules in a given patent or non-patent document. They are normally used for obtaining an overview of the document landscape of chemical structures, for patentability evaluation, validity or Freedom to Operate evaluation.  

We offer both chemical substance and structure searches for all purposes.

The experienced examiners performing the search have access to excellent search tools giving them access all the most relevant databases.

A chemical substance or structure will be searched in one or more of the following databases depending on the purpose of the search:

• Registry
• Reaxys
• Casreact
• Marpat
• MMS
• WPI (BCEcodes)

The examiner performing the search will be in close contact with you before during and after the search.

Upon conclusion of the search a report will be made. The report can be customized but will normally include the following:

• Specification of the aim of the search
• Description of the scope of the search
• Display of the relevant Markush or specific structures on result list, with a reasonable amount of hits
• Overview of references, i.e. divided into categories according to technical features or relevance.
• Search strategy, including structures searched, and databases used for the search.

We need a short description of the invention that specifies the novel steps, e.g. an invention disclosure, or a provisional patent application. If the purpose is validity then the patent number will generally suffice. 

Chemical Markush structures with preferred compounds, substance information can often be very helpful.