What is the purpose of the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 4 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. The Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system is a joint effort between the USPTO and the European Patent Office (EPO) designed to harmonize patent classification practices. According to MPEP 902 : “The CPC system is a detailed classification system, containing about 250,000 classification symbols, and is based on the International Patent Classification (IPC) system.” The CPC serves several key purposes: Provides a common classification system for both USPTO and EPO Enhances efficiency in patent searching and examination Facilitates international cooperation in patent examination Improves the quality and consistency of patent classification Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 4 rules Collapse Classification Orders Affect Existing Definitions MPEP 902.02 Recommended Examiner Definitions Must Be Updated Periodically MPEP 902.02 Recommended Classification Orders Available Online for USPTO Personnel MPEP 902.02 Classification Home Page Must Be Accessible via Toolkit MPEP 902.02 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How can patent examiners access the Classification Home Page? How can I access the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system? What automated search tools are available to patent examiners? How does the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system work? What are Definition Notes in the USPC?