How does the USPTO use the computer readable form (CRF) of the “Sequence Listing”?

The USPTO uses the computer readable form (CRF) of the “Sequence Listing” for several important purposes, as outlined in the MPEP: The information on the computer readable form will be entered into the Office’s database for searching and printing nucleotide and amino acid sequences. This electronic database will also enable the Office to provide published…

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How does the USPTO handle confidentiality of sequence data in pending applications?

The USPTO maintains strict confidentiality of sequence data in pending applications, in compliance with 35 U.S.C. 122. The MPEP clarifies: It should be noted that the Office’s database complies with the confidentiality requirement imposed by 35 U.S.C. 122. Unpublished pending application sequences are maintained in the database separately from published or patented sequences. That is,…

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How are foreign patent documents classified in the USPTO’s patent database?

Foreign patent documents in the USPTO’s patent database are classified according to the U.S. Patent Classification System. The MPEP states: “Foreign patent documents that have not been abstracted into the U.S. Patent Classification System are available for searching on an as-disclosed basis.“ This means that while some foreign patents are fully integrated into the U.S.…

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What types of documents can be recorded in the USPTO assignment database?

What types of documents can be recorded in the USPTO assignment database? The USPTO assignment database accepts various types of documents related to patent ownership and interests. According to MPEP 302, recordable documents include: Assignments of patent rights Security interests (e.g., liens, mortgages) Licenses Releases Certificates of name changes Mergers Other documents affecting title to…

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What is PALM in the context of patent examination?

PALM stands for Patent Application Locator and Monitoring system. While MPEP 303 doesn’t provide a definition, it mentions PALM in the context of assignment information: “…it is necessary for the examiner to obtain assignment information from PALM.” (MPEP 303) PALM is an internal USPTO database system used by patent examiners to access and track information…

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What is a title report in patent law?

A title report in patent law is a form used by the Assignment Division of the USPTO to report the name of the owner of an application or patent as shown by their records on a specific date. According to the MPEP: The “title report” is a form which can be used under certain circumstances…

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What types of documents can be recorded in the USPTO besides assignments?

In addition to assignments, the USPTO will record various other documents relating to interests in patent applications and patents upon request. These include: License agreements Security interest agreements Other documents affecting title to applications, patents, and registrations As stated in the MPEP, “Other documents affecting title to applications, patents, and registrations will be recorded as…

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