Patent Searching: Getting Started

Most countries use the International Patent Classification System (IPC). The US uses its own classification system.

The quickest way to a full-text patent is to use Google Patents. The only way to do a thorough search is to use a classification system in a database such as Espacenet.

The first Canadian patent (for potash) was granted in 1791.

First Search

Need help? Chat with a Librarian.

ARLO can help to:

• Liaise with external agencies and partners
• Identify research funding sources and develop research proposals
• Track and report on Institute research-related data and information
• Provide an interface for researchers to the Institute’s Marketing and Communications Department
• Assess technologies and markets
• Develop and protect intellectual property
• Develop commercialization strategies within BCIT and industry
• Support industry led innovation