Database Update Round-up – GBD, SciFinder, and Google Patents

Within the past month, we’ve looked at updates to major patent and non-patent literature databases, including big changes to TotalPatent in March and lots of new coverage and search options on STN (all described in the full update to the STN System Report).  Patent, trademark, and non-patent literature databases are all being updated continuously with new search features and coverage, so let’s take a quick look at a potpourri of  database update announcements.

After the jump, learn about the latest updates to the Global Brand Database, SciFinder, and Google Patents!

Free Trademark, Domain, and Logo Search Tools on Trademarkia

I’m always happy to find new trademark search tools, especially free search tools that can be used as an alternative to the Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS).  Professional trademark searchers are able to easily navigate TESS due to their years of experience utilizing both the command line and search form interfaces, but less experienced searchers conducting a preliminary trademark search may find the TESS interface a bit difficult to use.  We’ve looked at one alternative, TMQuest, a free US trademark search tool created by Minesoft. I’ve recently come across another free trademark search site, Trademarkia,  that also allows users to search for domain names, logos, trademarks currently published for opposition, brand ideas, and the option to search social media networks for brand names.

After the jump, we’ll look at the search features of Trademarkia and see how the site compares to TESS!

Exploring the WIPO Global Brand Database

Who enjoys searching for trademarks?  I don’t know many people who like using the clunky interface of the Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) over at the USPTO website when they need to search for US trademarks.  If you’re looking for a better search interface for trademark searching, try using the new WIPO Global Brand Database.  You’ll still have to use good old TESS if you’re looking for US trademarks, but the Global Brand Database is an excellent resource for locating “internationally protected trademarks, appellations of origin and armorial bearings, flags and other state emblems as well as the names, abbreviations and emblems of intergovernmental organizations,” according to a recent  press release on the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) website.

If you need an in-depth search, you should use the services of professional searchers, like Landon IP’s expert trademark searchers.  If you want to do a quick search for international trademarks, then join me in exploring the the features of the Global Brand Database.