Legal Definitions - freedom-to-operate search

A freedom-to-operate search, also known as an infringement search, is a type of patent search that aims to determine whether a product or method infringes any existing patents. This search is usually limited to the geographic area where the patent is in force.

• A company wants to launch a new product in the United States but is unsure if it would infringe on any existing patents. They conduct a freedom-to-operate search to ensure they are not violating any patents.
• An inventor creates a new method for producing a certain chemical compound. Before investing in the method, they conduct a freedom-to-operate search to ensure they are not infringing on any existing patents.

These examples illustrate how a freedom-to-operate search can help individuals and companies avoid potential legal issues by ensuring they are not infringing on any existing patents.