What is the difference between supplementary notes and ‘See or Search’ notes in USPC definitions?

The United States Patent Classification (USPC) system includes two types of Definition Notes, as explained in MPEP 902.02(a): Supplementary notes: These “supplement definitions by explaining terms or giving examples.” They provide additional context and clarification for the class or subclass definition. ‘See or Search’ notes: These refer to “related disclosures located in other classes or…

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What are Definition Notes in USPC?

Definition Notes in USPC are supplementary information that accompany many of the class and subclass definitions. The MPEP describes two types of notes: Supplementary Notes: notes that supplement definitions by explaining terms or giving examples See or Search Notes: notes referring to related disclosures located in other classes or subclasses The MPEP further explains the…

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What are Definition Notes in the USPC?

Definition Notes in the United States Patent Classification (USPC) are explanatory notes that accompany class and subclass definitions. According to MPEP 902.02(a), these notes are of two types: Supplementary notes: These “supplement definitions by explaining terms or giving examples.” “See or Search” notes: These refer to “related disclosures located in other classes or subclasses” and…

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How does the USPC system classify subcombinations of general utility?

The United States Patent Classification (USPC) system has a specific approach to classifying subcombinations of general utility. According to MPEP 903.02(b): “Each type of basic subject matter may have subcombinations which have utility with other and different types of subject matter; e.g., the machine elements of a stonecrusher. Subcombinations of this character usually are provided…

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What classification systems are used in patent searches?

Patent searches utilize multiple classification systems to organize and search for prior art. According to MPEP 904.02(a), the main classification systems used are: Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) U.S. Patent Classification (USPC) Other organized systems of literature The MPEP states: “Every group/subgroup and secondary classification area of the Cooperative Patent Classification, class/subclass of the U.S. Patent…

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What transactions can patent examiners perform using the Classification Manager tool?

The Classification Manager tool allows patent examiners to perform several transactions related to patent classification. According to the MPEP, examiners can request the following: Add cross-reference (XR) or secondary classifications Delete XR or secondary classifications Change original or primary classifications Add or delete International Patent Classification (IPC) classifications Specifically, the MPEP states: “(A) Add any…

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What types of patents can be managed using the Classification Manager tool?

The Classification Manager tool is specifically designed for managing the classification of design patents. The MPEP clearly states: “The Classification Manager tool is available only for design patents.” This means that utility patents and plant patents are not managed through this particular tool. Patent examiners working with design patents can use the Classification Manager to…

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What are the benefits of harmonized subclasses in patent classification?

Harmonized subclasses in patent classification systems offer several benefits: Improved consistency across major patent offices Easier cross-jurisdictional patent searches Enhanced efficiency in prior art searches Facilitated international patent prosecution Better understanding of global patent landscapes The MPEP’s mention of harmonization between the USPC, EPO, and JPO indicates a move towards a more standardized global patent…

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What is the difference between basic subject matter and features for additional purposes in patent classification?

In patent classification, there’s an important distinction between basic subject matter and features for additional purposes. MPEP 903.02(b) provides definitions for both: Basic Subject Matter: “The combination of features necessary and essential to the fundamental character of the subject matter treated; e.g., a stonecrusher requires a minimum number of features as essential before it can…

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How should I analyze the scope of a class in the USPC?

When analyzing the scope of a class in the USPC, you should follow these steps: Determine the types of subject matter contained in the class (e.g., manufacture, art, apparatus, or stock material). For each type of subject matter, consider various combinations and subcombinations, including: Basic subject matter combined with features for additional purposes Basic subject…

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