Whether you refer to it as a Freedom To Operate (FTO) search, Clearance search, or an Infringement search, this type of patent search is an integral part of the innovation process. An FTO search, among other things, will help you assess your innovation and aid in determining where to focus research and development efforts as you prepare to bring your product to market. At a high level, this type of patent search allows you or your legal counsel to determine your risks of infringing on an existing valid and in-force patent and whether you have the freedom to operate, or clearance, in the given market in which you plan to introduce your product or service.
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