How are patented and abandoned patent files stored and accessed by USPTO examiners?
The USPTO has specific procedures for storing and accessing patented and abandoned patent files: Recent Files: Recently patented and abandoned paper files are stored at the Files Repository. Older Files: These are housed in off-site warehouses. Image File Wrapper (IFW) Applications: These are stored electronically. The MPEP states, Image File Wrapper (IFW) applications are stored…
Read MoreHow are patented and abandoned patent application files stored and accessed?
Patented and abandoned patent application files are stored and accessed differently based on their age and format: Recently patented and abandoned paper files are stored at the Files Repository. Older files are housed in off-site warehouses. Image File Wrapper (IFW) applications are stored electronically. According to MPEP 711.04(b): “Image File Wrapper (IFW) applications are stored…
Read MoreHow are patent drawings stored and delivered with application files?
Patent drawings are typically stored within their respective application file wrappers. MPEP 711.04(b) explains: “With the exception of certain older files, the drawings of patented and abandoned files, if any, are now stored within their respective application file wrappers. Since it is desired not to separate one from the other, both the file and its…
Read More