IDS（information disclosure statement）， The meaning is that the applicant needs to provide the relevant existing technology they know to the patent office. That is to say, the applicant cannot conceal anything from the Patent Office. Once concealed, in future infringement lawsuits, the other party may use this as an excuse to accuse the applicant of violating the principle of good faith in the process of applying for a patent. If it is found that the applicant intentionally concealed important information, in addition to the possibility of the patent being invalidated, there may also be suspicion of perjury. Therefore, the relevant patent documents retrieved through the so-called "search for novelty" before applying for a patent in China are obligated to be provided to the US Patent Office using IDS when applying for a US patent. Otherwise, even if the patent right is obtained, it will cause trouble when exercising the right in the future.
