How does the USPC system classify subcombinations of general utility?
The United States Patent Classification (USPC) system has a specific approach to classifying subcombinations of general utility. According to MPEP 903.02(b):
“Each type of basic subject matter may have subcombinations which have utility with other and different types of subject matter; e.g., the machine elements of a stonecrusher. Subcombinations of this character usually are provided for in some general class so that the examiner should determine in each instance where they are classified.”
Key points about classifying subcombinations of general utility:
- They are components or features that can be used in various types of inventions.
- They are typically classified in general classes rather than specific invention classes.
- Examiners must determine the appropriate classification for each subcombination on a case-by-case basis.
- The classification of these subcombinations facilitates broader prior art searches across multiple fields of invention.
This approach ensures that widely applicable components or features can be easily located and considered during patent examination and prior art searches, regardless of the specific invention they are part of.
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