What is a top-up search in PCT examination?
A top-up search is an important part of the PCT examination process. The MPEP explains: “Before the preparation of the Chapter II report, a top-up search should be conducted by the IPEA to identify any additional prior art that has been published or has become available subsequent to the date of the establishment of the…
Read MoreWhat is the purpose of a top-up search in international preliminary examination?
A top-up search is conducted by the International Preliminary Examining Authority (IPEA) to identify additional prior art that has been published or become available after the establishment of the international search report. The main purpose is to discover intermediate prior art, such as patent applications published after the filing or valid priority date of the…
Read MoreHow does the International Preliminary Examining Authority (IPEA) handle top-up searches?
The International Preliminary Examining Authority (IPEA) conducts top-up searches as part of the international preliminary examination process. According to MPEP 1860: “The examiner will conduct a top-up search in the course of drawing up the international preliminary examination report… The top-up search should cover all the relevant documents in the search collections of the IPEA,…
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