What is the primary aim of patent searches?

The primary aim of patent searches is to verify if an invention has been previously patented. Conducting a patent search allows inventors and companies to determine the existing landscape of similar inventions and ensures that their own invention does not infringe upon any existing patents. This is a crucial step in the patent application process, as it helps in assessing the novelty and originality of the invention. By identifying existing patents, applicants can avoid legal issues and refine their inventions before filing for a patent.

Other options focus on different objectives which do not primarily align with the fundamental purpose of patent searches. For instance, generating income through licensing may be a byproduct of securing a patent, but it is not the primary goal of conducting a patent search. Preparing for company mergers or publishing research findings also do not directly relate to the core function of patent searches, which is specifically aimed at identifying prior art and determining the patentability of an invention.