How can I identify a harmonized subclass in the USPC?

Harmonized subclasses in the U.S. Patent Classification System (USPC) are easily identifiable by specific designations following the subclass title. According to the MPEP:

“Subclasses that have been harmonized have a designation of “EPO,” “JPO,” or “EPO/JPO” in parentheses following the subclass title to indicate if the subclass has been harmonized with the EPO or JPO or with both systems.”

So, when browsing the USPC, look for these designations after the subclass title to quickly identify harmonized subclasses and understand which patent office(s) they are harmonized with.

To learn more:

• patent classification
• harmonized subclasses
• USPC
• EPO
• JPO
• subclass designation