Is your product idea new?

Start by searching for your product idea using a search engine such as Google. Describe your idea as clearly as possible. Try different combinations of words to find the right one. The image results will quickly show whether you are on the right track.

Next, find the right English terms for your product idea or solution. Search again to find international results.

Next, check whether any patents could stand in your way. Start with the English search terms you have identified.

• Google Patents is clear and easy to use
• Espacenet Patent Search is a more international database with more advanced search options

Remember that patents use different language, so you may need to try alternative search terms. If 'butter knife' returns no results, try 'device for applying liquid to an object'. You will gradually identify the right technical terms for the field. You can also search for your competitors to see what they have patented.

Check which patents, designs and trademarks are registered in Norway, Europe and internationally with the Norwegian Industrial Property Office.

See also:

• Espacenet Patent Search
• Google Patents
• WIPO Patentscope

The search results can give you useful information about competing solutions, potential business partners, patents that limit your freedom to operate, trends, who is active in the market, how the market works, and more.

If you choose to develop your idea further, you have an exciting journey ahead. It will take expertise, networks, money and time – and, above all, unwavering determination to see it through. You must drive your idea forward and put in the work.

Before launching a new product in Norway or internationally, you need to establish whether your company can produce and sell it in the relevant market without infringing the rights of others. In Norway, this is known as 'handlingsrom', or 'Freedom to Operate' in English. Infringing the rights of others means that your product or service is too similar to an existing product or service. You could face legal action and be ordered to pay compensation to the rights holder.

When you are granted a patent, this does not automatically determine whether you need a licence from others to manufacture the patented product. You may therefore be unable to sell the product without infringing the rights of others. For example, someone else may own the rights to technology you need in the production process. Your solution may also be too similar to a competitor's solution.

That is why you need to

• check that you can produce and sell the product or service without infringing the rights of others
• secure ownership of, or agreements covering, all protected technology you need to make your product

Private patent firms offer services related to Freedom to Operate analyses. You can find providers in the IPR Adviser Database, and we can help you prepare a clear brief before you get in touch.