Since terminology is not standardised we define our various searches as follows:

• Collection Search. A search to compile a substantially comprehensive collection of references according to technical subject criteria.

• Infringement Clearance / Right-of-use Search. A search to locate subsisting patents where the manufacture, sale or use of a specific article or process may infringe claims. Patents not in force are also recorded, to indicate possible right-of-use.

• Name Search. A search for patents/patent applications owned by specific companies / individuals. The report lists all patent holdings or a selective list in accordance with specified subject matter. This type of search can be employed to locate "patent families" or equivalent patents in various countries.

• Novelty Search. A search to provide an indication of whether an invention forming the subject of a patent application is likely to be accorded patent protection.

• State-of-the-art Search. A search to compile sufficient references to provide a general indication of the state of the art.

• Validity Search. A search to locate documents which might be used to invalidate, either in terms of novelty or in terms of obviousness to a person skilled in the art, an invention forming the subject of a patent claim.