Hidden in plain sight: overlooked sources of prior art that can make or break a case
Episode notes
In this podcast episode, CAS IP experts Lucy Antunes and Matt Garver discuss the critical importance of comprehensive patent searching in intellectual property (IP) analysis. Drawing on decades of experience, they share real-world cautionary tales and success stories that highlight how overlooked sources of prior art can impact patentability, freedom-to-operate (FTO), and business decisions. The conversation highlights the importance of a multidimensional search strategy that combines human expertise, multiple databases, and emerging technologies, such as AI and automation. In this podcast, we explore:
- The importance of using multiple sources and broad vs. specific search terms.
- The role of automation and AI in modern IP search workflows.
- How collaboration between R&D and IP teams enhances search accuracy and strategic decision-making.
- How IP searches influence product development, investment, and licensing decisions.
Experts
Lucy is a senior searcher, U.S. patent agent and qualified patent information professional who has previously worked in patent analyst roles at Bristol Myers Squibb, DuPont, ExxonMobil, and Shell. Lucy has taught hundreds of patent information professionals in Europe, India, the U.S. the basics of patentability, freedom to operate, and invalidity searches. Lucy holds a B.A. in chemistry from Wheaton College, an M.S. from Quinnipiac University, and a certificate in intellectual asset management from the Illinois Institute of Technology. She is a member and former Chair of PIUG.
Matt is an IP Search Analyst at CAS, specializing in biochemistry, chemistry, and polymers. He previously worked as a polymer chemist for Zyvex Technologies, where he conducted R&D of carbon nanotube enhanced composites for high-profile companies in numerous markets. He also served as a Senior Help Desk Representative at CAS, where he trained customers on product features and benefits. Matt holds a B.S. in chemistry with a specialization in biochemistry from Bowling Green State University. He is a member of PIUG.