What information should be noted when citing a patent?

When citing patents in academic work, precise attribution is essential as patents are legal documents that confer specific rights. The key required information includes the patent number, which uniquely identifies the invention, the publication date, the names of all inventors, and the assignee (the entity holding the patent rights, often a corporation or institution). Including the full patent title and the issuing authority (e.g., "US Patent" or "EP Patent") adds clarity. Crucially, verify the current status and the specific claims being referenced, as these define the scope of protection. Accurate patent citation prevents claims of misrepresentation and supports the scholarly argument's validity. Cite the patent version accessed, typically the granted publication found via official databases like USPTO, EPO, or WIPO. Distinguish between application and granted patent numbers. Avoid citing patents for promotional purposes unrelated to the technical content. Considerations like potential expiry or invalidity are generally omitted unless directly relevant to the research context. Thorough citation upholds intellectual property norms and provides readers a reliable path to the source.