What is the new product technically about and which synonyms exist for similar products?

Which patent technology classes (CPC, IPC) is close to my product or technology?

Execute a first patent search to understand the existing patent landscape.

Sort the search results by proximity to your own product in decreasing order.

Involve a patent professional to better understand the relevance of your search result

Seek advice from a patent attorney in case close prior art exists.

Define names and synonyms for your product. Internet searches are helpful for inspiration.

Identify relevant patent classes by searching the related IPC/CPC directories.

Execute a patent search using the patent database.

Read the abstract and the claims of your search results and sort them based on their relevance.

Try to get an understanding of how relevant the search results are for your own product.

Only first clarifications are typically possible without being a patent professional.

Seek support from an experienced patent professional to avoid risks.

Infringement only happens in countries protected by national patent systems. A local check is needed.

Case law and practice need consideration and will only be provided by a qualified attorney.