What is the difference between a patent and a non-patent literature search?

A patent and a non-patent literature search are both ways of researching the validity of a proposed invention. The difference between the two is that one is focused on known patents, while the other is focused on all types of literature. A patent search is used to determine if an invention is new and if it has already been patented. This search is done by looking through the databases of the various patent offices to determine if an invention shares similar characteristics with inventions that have already been patented. This search is important because it determines whether an invention is eligible for a patent. A non-patent literature search is conducted by looking at books, journals, and other literature to see if the invention has already been mentioned. This search is important because it gives the inventor an idea of what is already known about the proposed invention. This search can also help the inventor determine if the invention is new and innovative enough to merit a patent. In the state of Mississippi, anyone who wishes to pursue a patent must first conduct both a patent search and a non-patent literature search. This ensures that the invention is new and valid before they apply for a patent. Doing either a patent search or a non-patent literature search alone is not enough to guarantee the success of a patent application.

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