Looking for detailed information on new technologies and inventions even before they are reported in the press? Checking out the competition? Seeking inspiration for your next entrepreneurial venture?

If you answered “yes” to any of the above, then maybe you should check out the various patent databases available on the web. Google, for instance, has just launched a beta version of a search engine that sifts through U.S. patents (at the application or grant stage), and the official patent offices in Canada and the U.S. each have their own search tools that do much the same thing. As well, there are third party sites such as FreePatentsOnline that allow both search functions and generate RSS feeds that alert you whenever a new patent has been registered in “your” subject area. FreshPatents also offers a search and tracking service.

And what will you find in these databases? A fascinating overview of new technologies, with detailed descriptions and accompanying drawings and diagrams, a section on the intellectual property claims made by the registrant, and insight into the whole process of invention. Some patents are amusing, too: check out the description of the electrical tablecloth at FreePatentsOnline (keeps those pesky mosquitoes in line!), or the light bulb changer.