What is the difference between Notes at different levels of the CPC hierarchy?
Notes in the CPC hierarchy differ in their scope and application depending on their placement. The MPEP 905.01(a)(2) explains this hierarchical difference:
“For example, a note after a class title applies to the entire class. A note after a subclass title applies only to the subclass, a note after a main group applies only to the main group, etc.”
Key differences include:
- Class-level Notes: Broadest application, affecting the entire class and all subordinate levels
- Subclass-level Notes: Apply to the specific subclass and its lower hierarchical levels
- Main Group Notes: Limited to the main group and its subgroups
- Subgroup Notes: Most specific, applying only to the particular subgroup
Understanding these differences is crucial for correctly interpreting and applying CPC classifications, as the scope of a Note’s influence narrows as you move down the hierarchy.
To learn more: