query step 1. query approach and patent query can be generally queried in the database published by China National Intellectual Property Administration. You can also entrust a patent search center to make professional inquiries. 2. Analyze the types of patents to be queried. In China, there are three types of patents: invention, utility model and appearance patent. Only when the types of patents are determined can you query. 3. If there is a patent number/application number: you can directly enter it in the column of patent number/application number.