FAQ & KNOWLEDGE BASE

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers about Patentability Search, FTO Analysis, Invalidation Search, delivery options, and working with us.

Patent Research

What sets your research apart from standard automated database searches?

Patent People combines proprietary technology, including AI models developed in-house, with the deep subject-matter expertise of our patent researchers. We go beyond retrieving database results: our experts assess relevance, refine the findings, and organize the evidence into clear, structured outputs that help your team make informed decisions.

FTO & Risk

How are Freedom-to-Operate (FTO) risk hotspots identified?

Our FTO approach combines expert review with AI support to systematically examine large volumes of patent documents. We use a method we call “Boolean Fencing”: defining a transparent, reproducible search scope designed to capture all potentially relevant documents. Within that scope, our researchers assess the findings for potential conflicts with the product’s technical features. This broad, structured review reduces the risk of overlooking relevant rights and helps identify areas requiring closer assessment.

Invalidation

What qualifies as actionable prior art in invalidation matters?

Prior art becomes actionable when it supports a clear strategy for challenging the patent. For opposition and invalidity matters, Patent People applies patent-attorney-informed thinking to develop a comprehensive, 360-degree attack strategy. We go beyond searching for individual claim features: we assess how the evidence fits together, which weaknesses it may expose, and how it can support different lines of attack.

Process & Security

How is confidentiality managed during sensitive research projects?

Patent People carries out all research exclusively with in-house employees who receive internal training and regular further training. Our proprietary AI infrastructure allows us to work without relying on third-party AI systems for research and analysis. For projects involving critical infrastructure or the defence sector, dedicated security checks can be arranged where required.

Patent Research

What is the typical turnaround time for a custom study?

Delivery times are measured from the date you commission the work. Standard delivery takes three weeks. Priority processing delivers within 10 days, while express delivery is available within three business days. Please include your deadline in your request so we can agree on the appropriate delivery option.

FTO & Risk

Can search results be updated continuously as new filings publish?

Yes. Monitoring is part of our service. Our proprietary AI filters help identify relevant new publications and tailor the findings to each customer’s priorities. By filtering out noise and focusing updates on what matters, we reduce the time and resources your team spends reviewing results.

Still have questions?

Our IP specialists are available to review your project scope and discuss custom research parameters.

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