How can I access the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system?
The Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system can be accessed through various online tools provided by the USPTO and EPO. According to MPEP 902:
“The CPC system and CPC definitions are available online from the USPTO’s website at https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search and from the EPO’s website at http://worldwide.espacenet.com/classification.”
To access and utilize the CPC system:
- Visit the USPTO’s CPC webpage for detailed information and search tools
- Use the CPC scheme browser to navigate through classification symbols
- Explore CPC definitions for comprehensive explanations of each classification
- Utilize the CPC-to-IPC or IPC-to-CPC concordance for cross-referencing
These resources are freely available and can be valuable tools for patent searchers, examiners, and applicants in understanding and applying the CPC system.
To learn more: