What tools are available for patent searching according to MPEP 904?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 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. According to MPEP 904 , patent examiners have access to various tools for conducting thorough patent searches. The section states: “In addition to the specialized tools described below, much of the technology which examiners use in searching is available to the public through the USPTO Patent Public Search facility.” Some of the tools mentioned include: Specialized classification and text search tools Foreign patent documents Non-patent literature databases Internet search engines These tools help examiners conduct comprehensive searches across multiple sources to identify relevant prior art. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Examiner Must Consider Prior Art from Parent Application MPEP 904 Required Review of Cited Prior Art from Parent Application Required MPEP 904 Recommended Examiner Must Identify All Prior Art Sources MPEP 904 Required Search Updates Must Include All Relevant Databases and Queries MPEP 904 Recommended Parent Applications Must Be Reviewed for Prior Art MPEP 904 Required Examiner Must Review File Wrapper History and PTAB Post-Grant Proceedings MPEP 904 Required Documents Cited in International Search Report Must Be Considered MPEP 904 First Search Should Cover Invention as Claimed MPEP 904 Recommended Examiner’s First Office Action Relies on Initial Search References MPEP 904 Examiner Must Complete Search Notes Form MPEP 904 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What additional classification systems should patent examiners consider besides CPC? How does the concept of analogous arts apply to anticipation under 35 U.S.C. 102? How does the concept of analogous arts relate to obviousness in patent law? What are analogous arts...