How does the Background of the Invention relate to the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC)?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09

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 Background of the Invention, specifically the Field of Invention part, can relate to the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) in the following way:

According to MPEP 608.01(c), “This statement may include a paraphrasing of the applicable Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) definitions.” This means that when describing the field of the invention, applicants can use the CPC definitions as a guide to accurately and comprehensively describe the technical field to which their invention pertains.

Using CPC definitions can help ensure that the Field of Invention is described in a way that aligns with standardized classification systems, potentially making it easier for patent examiners to understand and classify the invention.

Topics: Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Background Of The Invention, Cooperative Patent Classification, Field Of Invention