What is the purpose of associating an e-copy of the inter partes reexamination certificate with the patent?

The association of an e-copy of the inter partes reexamination certificate with the e-copy of the patent in search files serves several important purposes: It ensures that anyone searching for the patent will also find the reexamination results. It maintains a complete and up-to-date record of the patent’s legal status. It provides transparency in the…

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How can USPTO staff access reexamination file data on PALM?

USPTO staff can access reexamination file data on PALM through the following steps: Access the USPTO intranet site Click on “PALM” and then “General Information” On the PALM INTRANET General Information Display, enter the patent number in the box labeled Patent # Click on “Search” When the “Patent Number Information” appears, click on “Continuity Data”…

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How does the USPTO handle searching for rapidly evolving technologies?

The USPTO recognizes the challenges of searching for prior art in rapidly evolving technologies. According to MPEP 904.02: “In cases involving rapidly evolving technologies, it may be desirable to supplement the search by consulting a scientific expert or a specialized scientific facility.” To handle searches in these areas, the USPTO may: Consult scientific experts in…

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What features are available on the USPTO Patent Classification Home Page?

The USPTO Patent Classification Home Page, available at www.uspto.gov/Classification, offers several key features as described in MPEP 902.03(a): Index to the U.S. Patent Classification system (USPC) Class definitions Class schedules Integration with the USPTO Patent Full-Text and Image Database The MPEP states: “The site integrates with the USPTO Patent Full-Text and Image Database site by…

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How does the USPTO define a “complete search” for patent applications?

The USPTO defines a “complete search” for patent applications as one that covers the disclosed invention and the state of the art as thoroughly as possible within reasonable time and with reasonable effort. According to MPEP 904.02: “The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has traditionally attempted to provide the most thorough search possible within the…

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What types of references should examiners consider during a patent search?

Patent examiners should consider a wide range of references during their search to ensure a comprehensive examination. The MPEP 904.03 states: In all references considered, including NPL, foreign patents, and domestic patents, the examiner should study the specification or description sufficiently to determine the full value of the reference disclosure relative to the claimed or…

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How does a Supplementary International Search differ from the main international search?

A Supplementary International Search (SIS) differs from the main international search in several key aspects: Optional nature: SIS is an optional service, while the main international search is mandatory for all PCT applications. Timing: SIS can be requested up to 22 months from the priority date, while the main search is conducted earlier in the…

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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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