Patentability

Does your invention qualify for a patent?

Assessing whether your invention qualifies for a patent is essential before drawing up a patent application. These criteria are strictly defined. Your invention must provide a technical solution to a problem, be novel and inventive, arise from an intellectual effort and not yet be known on the market.

To assess this properly and avoid any unnecessary risks, you will work with a patent attorney, a specialised expert with a background in science or engineering, combined with legal training in patent law.

Ask our patent attorneys for advice

Patentability search

Before filing a patent application, we like to conduct a search of what already exists and is publicly known (also referred to as prior art). During an in‑depth patent literature search, we look for documents containing elements related to your invention. By analysing these documents, we assess whether your innovation meets the substantive requirements for patentability, enabling us to provide clear advice on the patentability of your concept.

A preliminary search also helps to define the invention precisely, especially its novel and inventive aspects, so that a strong patent text can be drawn up.

Request information about a preliminary search

Check whether your technical invention is patentable

Discuss your innovation with a patent attorney.

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Clear answers to every IP question

What is a patent?

A patent is a temporary exclusive right to use a technical invention (the patented subject matter). A patent remains valid for up to 20 years from the filing of the patent application and therefore offers only temporary protection. The patent holder can prohibit others from using their innovation within a specific territory, usually a country. The invention can be protected in several countries by applying for multiple patents in accordance with the applicable patent legislation in those countries.

A patent also allows licences to be granted for an invention and in that way provide a potential source of revenue. Oryon is happy to advise you on European and international treaties that facilitate obtaining patents in multiple countries.

In which countries does Oryon file patent applications?

We act as patent attorneys in Belgium, the Netherlands, Europe and for PCT applications (the international procedure). We communicate with local attorneys (correspondents) who handle matters on our behalf in virtually all parts of the world (the USA, China, Australia, Canada, Japan, etc.)

In which languages does Oryon draw up patents?

Our patent attorneys draw up patents in Dutch and English. Translations into other languages are available on request, for which we work with a translation agency.

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