"Patent essentials" via USPTO
There are several ways to search for patents based on what information you have as a researcher.
Keyword - Recommended for conducting a preliminary search of the patent literature landscape, and a good way to gather classification information on filed patents.
Patent Number - This is a persistent identifier for the patent, it will bring you to one specific patent.
Inventor - If you know the name of the company or the individual filing a patent, or want to see a list of patents that a company has filed. Some databases may also refer to this as the assignee or applicant.
Classification - Patents are all classified under a certain subject, this is recommended to conduct a thorough search of patent filings. See EspaceNet link below for classification search help.
These are some online resources that provide free patent access to the general public.
Reference & Instruction Department
Fordham University Libraries
Walsh Library ♦ Rose Hill Campus ♦ 718-817-3586
Quinn Library ♦ Lincoln Center Campus ♦ 212-636-6050
Fordham Westchester Library ♦ Fordham Westchester Campus ♦ 914-367-3061
library@fordham.edu ♦ text 71-TXTX-1284 ♦ Ask a Librarian (Chat)