Free searches in patent databases:
- DepatisNet:
- Database and patent server of the German Patent and Trademark Office.
- Main focus: German patents from 1877
- Access to original documents
- Espacenet:
- Database and patent server of the European Patent Office
- Main focus: European patents
- Access to original documents
USPTO:
- Database and patent server of the US Patent and Trademark Office
- US patents
- Access to original documents
Paid-for searches in patent databases:
Acquisition of patents
- Patents which are not available as full text in the above databases can only be ordered via the PIZ (Patentinformationszentren / Patent Information Centres) or via the Patent Office.
- Orders are liable to charges. They can be made by phone or in writing (also by e-mail), stating the patent number.
Information on inventions at universities
