How are IBM Technical Disclosure Bulletins used in patent examination?
How are IBM Technical Disclosure Bulletins used in patent examination?
IBM Technical Disclosure Bulletins are important publications used in patent examination as prior art. According to MPEP 901.06(d):
“IBM Technical Disclosure Bulletins are available in the Technology Center libraries and in the Scientific and Technical Information Center (STIC). These bulletins, published from 1958 to 1998, are cited as “.T.D.B.”.”
Patent examiners use these bulletins to search for relevant prior art when evaluating patent applications. They contain technical disclosures that can potentially invalidate or limit the scope of patent claims. Inventors and patent attorneys should be aware of these publications when conducting prior art searches or preparing patent applications.
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