Go to previous page Open Table of Contents Go to next page Close window
   esp@cenet  helpfiles
About the esp@cenet network. >>  Using esp@cenet >>  Performing a Search  >>  About Text Searches  >>  Boolean Operators

About

Boolean Operators

Content:

You can combine search terms using the Boolean operators AND, OR or NOT to refine your searches. Examples of Combining Search Terms Click on a search term to find a more detailed explanation.

Search Term
 Finds patents that contain
Title:
Any of the words car, automobile, or vehicle
Title:
All of the words solar, powered, and car
Title:
The word nail but not the word finger

More information:

For information about the way the Boolean Operators are interpreted, please consult Rules for Interpreting Queries.

Note:

A maximum of three operators can be used only.

Further Reading
About Text Searches
Searching with Words or Phrases
Boolean Operators
Combining Search Fields
OR: Broadening Searches
AND: Refining Searches
NOT: Excluding Terms

Copyright © 2000 European Patent Office . All Rights Reserved.