How do I read and interpret an IPC symbol?
To read and interpret an International Patent Classification (IPC) symbol, follow these steps:
- Identify the section letter (A-H)
- Read the two-digit class number
- Note the subclass letter
- Interpret the group/subgroup numbers
For example, in the symbol A 01 B 1/24:
- A: Section (Human Necessities)
- 01: Class
- B: Subclass
- 1/24: Group (Main group 1/00, subgroup 24)
The MPEP states: Any third or fourth digit after the oblique stroke is to be read as a decimal subdivision of the second or third digit, respectively; e.g. 3/426 is to be read as “three slash forty-two point six”, not three slash four hundred and twenty six and is to be found after 3/42 and before 3/43
. This helps in understanding the hierarchical structure of the classification.
To learn more: