What is the purpose of CPC classification for new patent applications?
The purpose of CPC (Cooperative Patent Classification) classification for new patent applications is to organize and categorize inventions effectively. According to MPEP 909.01(a), “New applications are classified in the CPC system.” This classification serves several important functions:
- Facilitates prior art searching
- Enables efficient routing of applications to appropriate examiners
- Helps in organizing patent documents for future reference
- Supports international patent classification efforts
By classifying new applications in CPC, the patent office ensures a systematic approach to handling and examining patent applications, which ultimately contributes to a more efficient and effective patent examination process.
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