What this work can include
Patent applications, issued patents, claims, abstracts, descriptions, specifications, drawing text, office-action material, prior-art documents and patent-related litigation or licensing records can all require translation depending on the matter.
Where accuracy has to stay consistent
Claim terminology, defined technical terms, reference numerals, figure references, component names and repeated phrases should remain consistent across the document. The translation should preserve what the source says without adding technical or legal interpretation that is not present in the original.
Managing large and multi-file projects
Patent files can be lengthy and may include families of related documents. Supplying the complete application or the specific sections required makes it easier to understand recurring terminology and figure references. Existing glossaries or earlier related translations can also be useful reference material.
Professional translation, certified translation or both?
Patent translation requirements depend on the jurisdiction, filing, proceeding or receiving professional involved. Certification is not assumed simply because a document concerns intellectual property. Filing and legal requirements should be confirmed by the responsible patent professional or receiving authority.
What affects the quote
Send the complete file or clearly identify the claims, description, abstract, drawings or supporting documents that need translation. Language pair, technical field, word count, formatting, deadline and consistency with existing patent-family terminology are important scoping factors.
Questions about this type of translation
Can only the patent claims be translated?
If that is the required scope, claims can be reviewed as a defined section. Related descriptions and drawings may still be useful context for terminology and reference numerals.
Can prior translations be used for terminology consistency?
Yes, relevant earlier material can be supplied as reference when consistent patent-family terminology is important.
Does patent translation include legal advice?
No. Translation represents the source material. Filing strategy, claim interpretation and legal advice belong with the responsible patent professional.
Does a patent translation need certification?
That depends on the filing, jurisdiction and receiving authority. Confirm the applicable requirement rather than assuming certification is universal.