What are the two types of technical information classified in CPC?

According to MPEP 905.03(a), patent documents contain two types of technical information to classify in the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system: Invention information: This is mandatory to classify and represents an addition to the state of the art. Additional information: This is discretionary and complements the invention information without necessarily representing an addition to the…

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What are the types of guidance headings in CPC schemes?

The Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) scheme utilizes various types of guidance headings to organize patent information. According to MPEP 905.01(a)(4), there are three main types of guidance headings: Common Subject Matter Indicators: “When a large part of a subclass relates to a common subject matter, a guidance heading indicating that subject matter may be provided…

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What are subcombinations in the context of patent classification?

In patent classification, subcombinations refer to components or features that can be part of a larger invention or have utility on their own. MPEP 903.02(b) describes two types of subcombinations: Subcombinations Specialized to Basic Subject Matter: The MPEP states, “Each type of basic subject matter may have subcombinations specialized to use therewith; e.g., the crushing…

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How does subclass harmonization affect patent searches?

Subclass harmonization significantly impacts patent searches by creating a more unified classification system across major patent offices. The MPEP’s description of harmonized subclasses between the USPC, EPO, and JPO indicates that: “Subclasses that have been harmonized have a designation of “EPO,” “JPO,” or “EPO/JPO” in parentheses following the subclass title to indicate if the subclass…

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What is the statutory authority for the patent classification system?

The statutory authority for establishing and maintaining the patent classification system is provided in 35 U.S.C. 8. According to MPEP 903.01, this statute states: “The Director may revise and maintain the classification by subject matter of United States letters patent, and such other patents and printed publications as may be necessary or practicable, for the…

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What is the purpose of ‘See or Search’ notes in USPC definitions?

The ‘See or Search’ notes in USPC definitions serve several important purposes: They explain the relationship between different subject matter collections. They highlight differences between related classifications. They assist users in deciding whether to include or exclude certain areas in their search. As stated in MPEP 902.02(a): “‘See or Search’ notes are helpful in explaining…

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How do ‘See or Search’ notes in USPC help in understanding the limits of a class or subclass?

‘See or Search’ notes in the United States Patent Classification (USPC) system play a crucial role in helping users understand the boundaries and relationships between different classes and subclasses. According to MPEP 902.02(a): “‘See or Search’ notes are helpful in explaining the limits of a class or subclass. They generally state the relationship to, and…

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What are residual classification places in CPC and when are they used?

Residual classification places in CPC are used when no specific classification place explicitly covers the technical features of the invention. Key points about residual classification places: They exist at both subclass and group levels. Identifiable by titles indicating they cover subject matter not elsewhere covered. Used as a last resort when no explicit classification place…

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