de Rassenfosse, G., Dernis, H. & Boedt, G., 2014. "An introduction to the Patstat database with example queries". Australian Economic Review 47(3), 395-408.

Abstract
This article provides an introduction to the Patstat patent database. It offers guided examples of 10 popular queries that are relevant for research purposes and that cover the most important data tables. It is targeted at academic researchers and practitioners who are willing to learn the basics of the database.

Keywords: patent count; patent indicator; patent statistics; Patstat; MySQL
JEL classification: O30

Download the published version
Download the working paper version
Download the reference to a citation manager (.ris file format)

This article:

• Explains how to use Patstat;
• Comes with a test database in MS Access to allow readers to discover Patstat without having to buy it;
• Provides MySQL scripts for ten queries that are frequently used (how to count forward citations, how to identify priority filings, how to identify granted patents, etc.);
• Discusses compatibility issues between MySQL and MS SQL;
• Encourages Patstat users to share their scripts;
• Provides links to additional resources for Patstat.

• The test database in MS Access as well as the MySQL source codes (hosted on the RunMyCode website)

• Selection bias in innovation studies: A simple test
• The worldwide count of priority patents: A new indicator of inventive activity

• An introduction to the Patstat database with example queries, Melbourne Institute Working Paper 8/14
• An introduction to the Patstat database with example queries, arXiv Computer Science 1404.7447