Why switch to the current Espacenet version?

Innovation progresses by building on existing knowledge, which is why having access to a vast pool of ideas is crucial. 

Espacenet, a robust platform maintained by the EPO, provides free access to a growing collection of over 150 million patent records dating back to 1782 and originating from more than 100 patent authorities. It empowers the public to explore and build upon a wealth of inventions.

While the older Classic Espacenet served users well, an updated version was launched in 2019, offering significant advancements to make patent research easier, faster and more effective. Below are some examples of key features available in the current version.

Smarter search

Espacenet allows you to search the entire EPO patent collection at once using English, German and/or French as search languages.

Furthermore, you can search English machine translated full texts from around 30 patent authorities, including China, Japan and South Korea, enabling you to retrieve a broader set of results. While this may generate more results than expected, Espacenet automatically sorts them by relevance, taking factors like search term frequency into account. This helps you focus on the most relevant documents.

Search results are grouped by patent families, instantaneously eliminating duplicate entries while keeping all family-specific details accessible via the document pane. This instant grouping allows you to concentrate on unique inventions without losing access to comprehensive family information.

Simple and flexible search

In the current version of Espacenet, search is much easier and faster. The Smart search bar remains visible at all times, allowing you to quickly refine your query without needing to navigate to another page. 

Figure 1. Smart search bar visible at all times

It supports basic searches and still allows you to use the Smart search expert language, empowering you to create more precise queries, such as searching exclusively within claims or using proximity operators. For long queries, the Smart search editor, accessible via the small rectangle on the right of the search bar, lets you view and adjust your entire query effortlessly.
 

Figure 2. Smart search editor to view and edit long queries

You can also choose to display the Advanced search alongside the result list or hide it, as needed. When opened immediately after launching, Espacenet offers a structured, customisable template for more precise searches, eliminating the need to know the Smart search expert language. 

Both Smart search and Advanced search work together, so you can switch between them without losing your progress. Whether you are an expert user or a beginner, these features adapt to your needs.

Figure 3. Advanced search with toggle display option

Better navigation between the documents

The split-view layout saves time by allowing you to review search results alongside detailed document views, so you don't have to constantly switch between pages. If the text appears too small, you can use your browser's zoom function (e.g. CTRL +) to enlarge it. The fonts and layout are responsive, adjusting to your preferences for improved readability.

Sticky views ensure reading consistency. If you are viewing claims for one document, switching to another document will also show you its claims instead of the default Bibliographic data.

Additionally, you can customise your workspace by adjusting the panels between the result list and the document pane or drawings to focus on what matters most. If needed, you can hide the result list entirely by selecting the arrow in the top-right corner of the result list panel, and then use the up and down arrows to navigate through the results.

Figure 4. Split view with adjustable panels

AI-based CPC Text Categoriser

The current version of Espacenet provides access to the AI-powered CPC Text Categoriser. This tool interprets natural language queries to suggest relevant CPC classification symbols, along with a link to the CPC scheme definition for further. This intuitive aid helps you refine your search and enhance its accuracy.

Figure 5. AI-based CPC Text Categoriser

Conclusion

While there is always potential for improvement, the current version of Espacenet goes beyond a simple upgrade. Its improvements are functional, not just visual, and are aimed at making patent research faster and more efficient.

Consider switching to this version of Espacenet as an investment in a more productive and innovative way to explore patents!

Keywords: Espacenet, patent searching, artificial intelligence, CPC