What is the significance of the first-listed CPC symbol in a patent application?

The first-listed CPC symbol in a patent application holds special significance. As stated in MPEP 909.01(a):

The first-listed CPC symbol is considered the controlling classification. The controlling classification generally determines the art unit to which the application will be routed for examination.”

The importance of the first-listed CPC symbol includes:

  • Determining the primary art unit responsible for examination
  • Influencing the selection of the primary examiner
  • Guiding the initial focus of the prior art search
  • Potentially affecting the application’s processing and examination timeline

Examiners should carefully consider which CPC symbol to list first, ensuring it best represents the invention’s primary subject matter and aligns with the most appropriate examining art unit.

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Tags: art unit assignment, controlling classification, cpc symbols, patent examination