Up to 90% of the current state of technology is often ensconced in the patent literature, especially in long-established sciences and disciplines, such as mechanical engineering or chemistry. Costly double inventions can be avoided through patent research. Suggestions and approaches by other inventors enrich their own knowledge and may point the way before the start of research. Professional research is often sensible for one’s own patent application, since it provides information about the state of technology around the world and preconditions for patenting (in particular innovation) can be better assessed.

In addition, an overview is gained of the possible sales market and potential licensees or competitors through research.