How can patent examiners directly access foreign patent information?

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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. Patent examiners at the USPTO have multiple options for directly accessing foreign patent information. According to MPEP 901.07 : Directly search WPI in-house Access INPADOC database Use both WPI and INPADOC Request foreign patent searches through the Scientific and Technical Information Center (STIC) The MPEP states: Patent examiners may directly search WPI in-house or INPADOC or both. Examiners may also request foreign patent searches through STIC. For more information on STIC services, examiners are directed to MPEP § 901.06(a), paragraph IV . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Foreign Patent Searches Through STIC Permitted MPEP 901.07 Patent Examiners May Use WPI or INPADOC MPEP 901.07 Permitted Examiners Can Request Foreign Patent Searches Through STIC MPEP 901.07 Permitted WPI In-House for Additional Searches MPEP 901.07 Required WPI In-House First Choice for Publication Dates and Patent Families MPEP 901.07 Examiners Can Access Patent Family Data MPEP 901.07 Permitted Examiners Access Patent Family Through Databases MPEP 901.07 Requirement for Examiner's Action Under 1.104(a)(1) MPEP 901 WPI Database Requirement for In-House Search Integration MPEP 901.07 Request for Expedited Examination of Design Applications MPEP 1002.02(c)(3) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the Common Citation Document website and how do examiners use it? What is the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system? How does the Global Dossier Initiative benefit patent examiners? What is patent family information and how can examiners access it? How does patent family information assist in prior art searches?