What is the difference between using WPI and INPADOC for patent searches?
According to MPEP 901.07, there are key differences in how USPTO examiners use the World Patents Index (WPI) and International Patent Documentation Center (INPADOC) databases: WPI: Preferred for more comprehensive searches. The MPEP states: WPI in-house is used whenever abstracts are needed or when searches in addition to publication date or patent family are required,…
Read MoreWhat are WPI and INPADOC databases used for in patent examination?
The World Patents Index (WPI) and International Patent Documentation Center (INPADOC) are two key databases used by USPTO examiners for retrieving foreign patent information. According to MPEP 901.07: WPI: Used for searches requiring abstracts, publication dates, patent families, inventor names, or International Patent Classification (IPC) searches. INPADOC: Primarily used for quick searches of publication dates…
Read MoreWhat is the agreement between the USPTO and INPADOC, and how does it benefit examiners?
The USPTO has a special agreement with the International Patent Documentation Center (INPADOC), which is now part of the European Patent Office. According to MPEP 901.07: The Office enjoys cost effective rates for INPADOC due to an agreement between the Office and the International Patent Documentation Center (now part of the European Patent Office) negotiated…
Read MoreWhat is patent family information and how can examiners access it?
Patent family information refers to related patent documents that share a common priority. According to MPEP 901.07, examiners at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office can access this information through: Commercial databases Automated search tools like EAST and WEST Search services provided by the Scientific and Technical Information Center (STIC) The Common Citation Document website…
Read MoreHow can I access published international applications?
Published international applications are made available to the public through various means: WIPO’s PATENTSCOPE database: This is the primary source for accessing published PCT applications. It’s available at https://patentscope.wipo.int/. USPTO’s Patent Application Information Retrieval (PAIR) system: For applications that have entered the national phase in the US. Other national patent office databases: Many countries provide…
Read MoreHow can abandoned applications be accessed for prior art searches?
Abandoned applications can be accessed for prior art searches through various means. The MPEP 901.02 states: “Abandoned applications are available on microfilm in the Patent Search Room.” Additionally, many abandoned applications are now available electronically through the USPTO’s public databases. Patent examiners and the public can access these applications to conduct thorough prior art searches.…
Read More