How does the USPTO access patent family information?
The USPTO accesses patent family information through various databases and tools. According to MPEP 901.07: “Examiners can retrieve patent family information using the USPTO’s automated search tools…” These tools include: EAST (Examiner’s Automated Search Tool) WEST (Web-Based Examiner Search Tool) Global Dossier These systems provide access to patent family data from various sources, including foreign…
Read MoreWhat is the Global Dossier Public Access and how is it useful for patent research?
The Global Dossier Public Access is a tool provided by the USPTO that allows access to file histories of related patent applications. It is particularly useful for researching international applications and applications from WIPO-CASE participating offices. According to the MPEP: If the examiner wishes to obtain a copy of a specification from an international application…
Read More