How are classes and subclasses identified in the USPC?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. According to MPEP 902.01 , classes and subclasses in the USPC are identified as follows: “Each class has a title descriptive of its subject matter, is identified by a class number, and is subdivided into a number of subclasses. Each subclass also has a descriptive title, is identified by a subclass number, and the subclass number is an integral number that may contain a decimal portion and/or alpha characters.” For example, a complete subclass identification might look like 417/161.1A, where 417 is the class number and 161.1A is the subclass number. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Each Class Has Descriptive Title and Subclasses MPEP 902.01 Complete Subclass Identification Requires Class, Subclass Numbers and Designations MPEP 902.01 Subclass Must Have Integral Number MPEP 902.01 Permitted Manual for U.S. Patent Classification System Is Maintained Electronically MPEP 902.01 Manual for US Patent Classification System Available to Personnel MPEP 902.01 List of Classifications by Number and Art Unit MPEP 902.01 Permitted Manual of Classification for USPC System Contains Class and Subclass Titles MPEP 902.01 Manual of Classification for USPC System Parts Required MPEP 902.01 Recommended Classification Orders Affect Existing Definitions MPEP 902.02 Recommended Examiner Definitions Must Be Updated Periodically MPEP 902.02 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How is the Manual of Classification for the USPC structured? What is the U.S. Patent Classification System (USPC)? Is the U.S. Patent Classification System still being updated? How can patent examiners access the Classification Home Page? How can I access the Cooperative Patent Classificat...