- 1). Check if the patent has been assigned. Assignment information can be found on the first page of an issued patent, or on the application data sheet of a patent application. Generally, inventors often assign their patent application to the company where they are employed. This company is called the assignee of the patent. Once you know the assignee, you can go to the their website and see if the inventor is still employed there. If the inventor can't be found on the assigee's website, call the assignee company anyway. If they are not employed, try to speak to the inventor's former coworkers, as they might be able to tell you where the inventor can be reached.
- 2). Call the co-inventors. Their names can be found on the first page of the patent or on the application data sheet. Inventors of an invention tend to stay in touch with each other. Co-inventors are usually happy to provide contact information for each other because they are all vested in the success of the patent. They understand the urgency behind finding a particular inventor.
- 3). Search the Internet. Some sights to examine include Facebook, Google or LinkedIn. If none of these avenues are productive, consider using a search firm. Many search firms will do little more than you have already done, so select your search firm with care. Ask colleagues and friends for recommendations.
- 4). Make a diligent effort and document what steps you have taken. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) requires that you make a diligent effort to locate the missing inventor. Keep good notes about phone calls you made and any Internet searches you have conducted.
- 5). Consult an attorney. Different rules govern different situations. For example, 35 U.S.C. 117 governs what happens if the inventor cannot be found because he is dead or insane. In addition, 37 C.F.R. 1.14 provides for when an inventor refuses to sign or cannot be found. You will want expert advice in dealing with the USPTO if an inventor cannot be located.
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