Freedom to Operate Analysis (FTO)
A freedom-to-operate analysis (FTO analysis) is essential for any company that wants to launch a new product or service on the market. By means of an FTO analysis, you can ensure that the development, manufacture and marketing of a product does not infringe the existing patent rights of other companies.
I support my clients in recognizing and assessing potential IP risks at an early stage by thoroughly researching and examining relevant patents and applications. Based on this analysis, I develop a comprehensive assessment of the freedom to operate and, if necessary, alternative strategies for circumventing critical intellectual property rights.
I advise you on the legal and strategic aspects of the FTO analysis so that your product development remains within the scope of the applicable patent rights. My aim is to give you the certainty that your investment in innovation will not be jeopardized by unforeseen legal disputes.
Overview of Services
Patent Search
Conducting a comprehensive search to identify existing patents or utility models that could affect the commercialization of a product or technology.
License Negotiations
Assistance in negotiating licenses for patents that could block commercialization of the product.
FTO Report
Providing a detailed legal analysis of whether the product or process infringes existing patents.
Patent Expiry Review
Analyzing the expiry dates of relevant patents to determine when freedom to operate is available without licensing.
Risk Assessment
Evaluation of the potential legal and financial risks associated with further development in light of identified patents.
Jurisdictional Analysis
Review of patent rights in specific countries or regions to ensure freedom to operate in target markets.
Patent Clearance
Identification of patents that need to be licensed, circumvented or amended to ensure freedom to operate.
Patent Validity Analysis
Assessing the strength and enforceability of potentially problematic patents to determine whether they can be challenged.
Non-Infringement Strategies
Advice on modifications or alternatives to avoid infringement of third party patents.
Patent Opposition and Revocation
Assistance in challenging or opposing patents that restrict freedom to operate.