How does an examiner document the search strategy in patent examination?
Documenting the search strategy is a critical aspect of patent examination. According to MPEP 904, examiners must keep detailed records of their search process: “In order to provide a complete, accurate, and uniform record of what has been searched and considered by the examiner for each application, certain minimum documentation of the search is required.“…
Read MoreHow should patent examiners document their Internet search strategies?
Patent examiners are required to document their Internet search strategies according to established practices and procedures. The MPEP provides guidance on this in Article 10 of the Patent Internet Usage Policy: “All Patent Organization users of the Internet for patent application searches must document their search strategies in accordance with established practices and procedures as…
Read MoreHow should an examiner handle information about areas of search submitted by an applicant?
When an applicant submits information about areas of search, the examiner must consider this information and clearly indicate which areas were used and which were not used in performing the search. The MPEP provides specific guidance: “Information constituting identification of areas of search must be considered and the examiner must indicate which areas were used…
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