If you have a portfolio of patents, you may be wondering which of these are among your most valuable intellectual assets. That’s why it’s important to know how to gauge patent strength and evaluate markets to see just how popular your innovations or products could be. A California sporting goods patent lawyer can help you protect your IP and figure out which patents are the most relevant to your business.

What Steps Should Be Taken to Assess Patent Strength?

There are three parts to this process. You should:

  • Carefully analyze your patent
  • Research any relevant markets
  • Consult with experts in the relevant industry or field

Which Factors Can Indicate Patent Strength?

When you analyze your own patent, you’re looking for ways that it’s been tested and ways that it stands out. If you have something truly unique, you have a stronger patent. Some qualities to look for include:

An extensive examination history: Replying to patent office actions and trying to get a patent approved over and over again can be irritating, but when you finally get through the process you have a battle-tested patent. It has been challenged again and again, yet it still stands out as a unique idea worth protecting.

Subsequent patents: It can also be helpful if other patents reference your patent. That can show a high amount of patent strength and influence.

A broad claim: A patent that covers a wide range of implementations is often seen as stronger than one that really only allows you to make more specific claims.

Novelty: A truly unique concept or invention is stronger and harder to challenge.

What Kind of Market Can Increase Patent Strength?

Even if you have a strong patent, it’s no use if there’s no market for it. That’s why it’s also important to evaluate market relevance and look at factors like:

  • The size of the market
  • The market’s growth rate
  • How competitive the market is
  • What kinds of regulations this market faces
  • How quick a market is to accept and adopt new technology or innovations
  • Whether the patent helps satisfy customer demand

If your IP can be used in a fast-growing market where new tech and innovations are quickly accepted, that can be a good sign of patent strength.

How Can Experts Help?

It’s also a good idea to have experts from a given field weigh in. Talking to a lawyer who knows your industry or anyone else who has extensive experience with technologies similar to your patent can give you valuable insight and an outside perspective. If you’re looking for a more complete understanding of patent strength, expert consultation can help.

Meet With an Experienced Patent Attorney

When you have questions about patents and protecting intellectual property, we have answers. Contact Burns Patent Law and schedule a consultation with our team. We’re ready to help you make the most out of your IP.