Methodology
How we explain patents.
PatentBrief turns granted US patents into plain English. Here is exactly how we do it, where our facts come from, and what this is — and isn’t.
Our principles
Plain English, from the source
Every breakdown starts from the patent itself — its claims and its specification. We translate that language into plain English rather than paraphrasing someone else's summary.
Facts from public records
Patent numbers, filing and grant dates, owners, status, and citation counts come from public patent data — not from estimates. Where a value isn't on the record, we leave it out rather than guess.
Always linked to the original
Every patent page links to the full, official document so you can read the primary source and verify anything we say.
What it does — and does not — cover
We pay special attention to the boundary of each patent: what the claims actually protect, and what they leave open. That boundary is the most useful and most misunderstood part of a patent.
Educational, not legal advice
PatentBrief is an educational resource. Our explanations are interpretations to help you understand a patent — they are not legal opinions, and they are not a substitute for a qualified patent attorney.
We correct mistakes
If something here is wrong, tell us and we will fix it. Accuracy matters more than being first.
Where our facts come from
- USPTO ↗
The United States Patent and Trademark Office — the authority for US patent grants and status.
- USPTO Patent Public Search ↗
The USPTO's official full-text and image search for issued patents and applications.
- Google Patents ↗
Full-text patents, family data, and forward citations. Every PatentBrief page links to the original here.
- Espacenet ↗
The European Patent Office's worldwide patent database, for international family members.
Found an error?
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