What are combination sets in CPC classification?
Combination sets are a feature of the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system that allow for enhanced storage and retrieval of classification information. According to MPEP 905.03(c): “In certain CPC fields, the examiner has the ability to create and search on combinations of CPC symbols (provided as groupings of symbols), each symbol in a grouping has…
Read MoreWhat classification systems are used in patent searches?
Patent searches utilize multiple classification systems to organize and search for prior art. According to MPEP 904.02(a), the main classification systems used are: Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) U.S. Patent Classification (USPC) Other organized systems of literature The MPEP states: “Every group/subgroup and secondary classification area of the Cooperative Patent Classification, class/subclass of the U.S. Patent…
Read MoreWhat happens after a Classification Challenge is submitted?
After a Classification Challenge is submitted, the following process occurs: The challenge is reviewed by management. If changes to C* designations are deemed necessary and a First Action on the Merits (FAOM) has not been submitted, the application may be rerouted based on the new C* designations. If no changes are made to the C*…
Read MoreWhat is the Classification Challenge Procedure in CPC?
The Classification Challenge Procedure in CPC is a process where patent examiners can challenge the designated CPC (Cooperative Patent Classification) symbols on a nonprovisional utility patent application if they believe the classifications are incorrect. According to MPEP 909.01(d): “When, in the opinion of the assigned examiner, the C* designated CPC symbol(s) on a nonprovisional utility…
Read MoreWhen should a Classification Challenge be submitted in relation to a restriction requirement?
When a restriction requirement is applicable, a Classification Challenge should be submitted only after an election has been made. This ensures that the challenge is based on the elected claims. As stated in MPEP 909.01(d): “In those applications in which a restriction is considered proper by the examiner, an election must be made prior to…
Read MoreWhat tool is used to track Classification Challenges?
The USPTO uses the Classification Allocation Tool (CAT) to track and manage Classification Challenges. According to MPEP 909.01(d): “SPEs and examiners must use the Classification Allocation Tool (CAT) classification challenge pages which create a record of the classification challenge history of each application and facilitates tracking of classification challenges of applications.” The CAT serves several…
Read MoreWhat is the purpose of C* designations in patent application classification?
C* designations play a crucial role in the classification of patent applications at the USPTO. According to MPEP 909.01(b): “Every nonprovisional utility application, new or amended, and including the drawings, if any, when first received by the USPTO must be fully classified and have C* designations assigned to those CPC symbols on the application that…
Read MoreWhat is a C-STAR (C*) in CPC classification?
A C-STAR (C*) is an important designation in the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system. According to MPEP 905.03(a): “A C-STAR (C*) is applied to an allocated symbol from the classification picture on an application when that symbol represents at least one concept that is claimed.” Key points about C-STAR: It is mandatory to apply C*…
Read MoreWhat happens if a C* classification challenge results in changes?
If a C* classification challenge results in changes to the C* designations on an application, the application may be rerouted to a different examiner. According to MPEP 909.01(d): “If review of the C* challenge(s) results in a determination that change(s) should be made to the C* designation(s) on an application and a First Action on…
Read MoreWhat is a C* classification challenge?
A C* classification challenge is a process initiated by an examiner when they believe the C* (C-Star) designated CPC symbols on a patent application are incorrect. According to MPEP 909.01(d): “When, in the opinion of the assigned examiner, the C* designated CPC symbol(s) on a nonprovisional utility patent application are incorrect, they must initiate a…
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