Freedom to Operate Search

Freedom to operate (FTO) Search

At Promax, we offer hybrid Freedom To Operate (F.T.O) searches utilizing our unique blend of proprietary tools PAT CLEAR and CLAIMCHART MASTER, in conjunction with the deep analysis performed by our highly experienced engineers and scientists. We conduct comprehensive worldwide or geo-specific FTO searches tailored to each client's individual needs. Our cutting-edge tools organize results in interactive formats (claim charts and 3D graphs) for ease of understanding and enable rapid design iterations around competitors' patents. Whether you have a proof of concept or a design lock, our fulsome and all-inclusive searches offer complete security to launch new products and technologies and help you avoid unnecessary infringement suits and allegations.

Our Methodology

Our methodology combines rigorous research, data-driven analysis, and innovative problem-solving to deliver effective solutions.

PAT CLEAR

Automatic FTO Search Tool

Our “PAT CLEAR” (Automatic FTO Search Tool) has been built for innovators, entrepreneurs, and organizations that utilize IP information to grow their existing product offerings and to design new and innovative products to bring to the marketplace. PAT CLEAR empowers you to perform geo-specificfulsome freedom to operate searches in-house. PAT CLEAR quickly finds granted pending applications and WIPO applications in a client-specific jurisdiction. It further ranks identified patents in the best order of relevance by analyzing dependent claims and claim enablement, thereby helping clients identify opportunities and mitigate patent infringement threats.

Electrical, Electronics & Communications Industry

Thinking Outside the Box

Why Choose Us for FTO Search

Proven track record of excellence, having completed over 200 FTO search projects, assisting the R&D teams of leading Fortune 500 companies and cutting-edge start-ups worldwide in making essential adjustments ahead of product launches.

State-of-the-art analysis performed by expert search professionals leveraging proprietary Product/Service field-specific trained ML models for best-in-class F.T.O. searching

Multilingual search capabilities for searching and reporting in 7+ languages.

Get regular notifications, alerts, and emails regarding the latest amended claims of previously identified relevant pending patent applications and all new results that could pose potential infringement threats.

Meticulously crafted tailor-made check-lists for the consistent and exceptional quality of each search matter.

Extensive coverage across major patent databases, encompassing over 100+ jurisdictions.

Robust processes and a systematic approach for super-prompt delivery for both bulk and single search requests.

Customized pricing tailored to accommodate the individual requirements of diverse clients.

Why Choose Promax Legal for FTO Search ?

Our Interactive & Automated FTO Report

Download Sample Report

Case Studies

Avoiding Legal Pitfalls: How Promax's FTO Search Saved a VR Start-Up

A startup approached Promax to conduct an FTO search for their upcoming VR product. We conducted a thorough search, utilizing our industry experts and vast database to identify relevant patents in the immersive technologies field. We carefully analyzed the claims of patents to identify any potential overlap with the VR device. Upon identifying a patent family with similar features, we provided the client with the search findings and a detailed analysis highlighting specific areas of concern. At the client's request, we recommended modifications to reduce the risk of infringement. With our guidance, the company incorporated the suggested modifications to their VR device. As a result, they successfully launched the product without encountering any legal issues.

Smart Home Automation

Objective : Promax was enlisted by a leading smart home automation company to conduct a freedom-to-operate (FTO) analysis for their upcoming product line in the US market. The objective was to identify any active patents that could potentially obstruct the use of their smart home devices.

Background: Smart home automation technology enables the integration and control of various devices within a home through a centralized system. These systems utilize wireless communication protocols such as Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Wi-Fi to enable seamless connectivity and control.

Product Overview: The product line in focus comprises a range of smart home devices, including smart thermostats, lighting systems, security cameras, and door locks. These devices are designed to provide users with enhanced convenience, energy efficiency, and security through remote monitoring and control via smartphone applications.

Our Approach: Promax assigned a team of experts specializing in smart home automation technology to undertake the project. The team conducted an in-depth review of the smart home automation landscape, focusing on key features and functionalities of the client's product line. Using targeted keyword searches and patent classifications, we identified both active and inactive patents relevant to the smart home automation domain. The search yielded a substantial number of patents, which were then meticulously analyzed and shortlisted based on their relevance to the client's product line. A comprehensive analysis report was prepared, detailing the findings.

Result: Promax's analysts conducted a thorough clearance analysis of the client's product line against the independent claims of all in-force respondents. Additionally, WIPO applications filed within the last three years were also examined to ensure comprehensive coverage. The analysis concluded that the client's smart home devices did not infringe on any in-force patents, providing assurance for their market entry.

Conclusion: The insights gained from the Freedom to Operate search report enabled the client to proceed confidently with the development and launch of their smart home automation product line. By avoiding potential infringement issues, the client was able to focus on product innovation and market expansion strategies, ultimately driving business growth.

Our clients praise us for our great results

“ I have been working with Promax from the past 5 years. They are handling our in-house work which includes prosecution, infringement scan, patentability and portfolio analysis. Promax gets to the point of what their clients really want and need.”

Patent Director

Silicon IP to Software, USA

Hi Aseem, I want to extend to Promax – and in particular to the team – my sincere appreciation for the work that was done on the E-Watch project under difficult circumstances. I especially appreciated the team’s willingness to work long days for two weeks straight so that we could meet our deadline. I know that many people had to make personal sacrifices so that production could be increased and the deadline could be met, and I am very grateful for those sacrifices. Moreover, I want to complement the team and Promax’s process for producing high-quality charts. Your team was able implement the changes suggested by us in an immediate and effective manner, which cut down substantially on the work we had to do after we received the charts. By the last week of the project, the quality of the work coming from the team was so high, I found no errors in the charts that were produced and no changes had to be made on our end. Please pass on my gratitude to the team for their hard work and dedication to the project. Without their commitment to the project we would not have met this difficult deadline. We will be sure to use Promax again. Thank you.

Director of Patents

Silicon Valley Based Semiconductor Company

Aseem Chadha is a Managing Associate at Promax Legal. I first met him at a conference in 2014. He made me a deal I couldn’t refuse and guaranteed he would find better art on a search project that I had already found in an earlier searched done by another firm. Aseem and his team came through. Aseem is a good listener and gets to the point of what his clients really want and need. Like you, Aseem is a very nice person, and I am sure you will enjoy meeting him. While Aseem is based in India, he does travel here from time to time.