What is the CPC system and how does it relate to patent classification?
The Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system is a joint patent classification system developed by the USPTO and the European Patent Office (EPO). According to MPEP 905.03(a), “The CPC is a detailed classification system, containing about 250,000 classification symbols, and is divided into nine sections.” This system is used to organize and classify patent documents, making it easier for examiners and researchers to search for prior art.
The CPC system enhances patent classification by:
- Providing a more detailed and up-to-date classification structure
- Facilitating better harmonization between the USPTO and EPO classification practices
- Improving the efficiency of prior art searches
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