Can the public access the CPC system for patent searches?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 7 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Yes, the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system is accessible to the public for patent searches and classification purposes. The MPEP 905 explicitly states: “CPC is jointly managed and maintained by both offices and is available for public search for classification.” This public availability enhances transparency in the patent process and allows inventors, researchers, and patent professionals to utilize the same classification system used by patent examiners, facilitating more effective prior art searches and patent analysis. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 7 rules Collapse Multipart Title Describes Separate Information Entities MPEP 905.01(a) Recommended Multipart Title Separated by Semicolon MPEP 905.01(a) Recommended Subclass Covers Refrigerators, Cold Rooms, Ice Boxes, and Other Cooling Devices MPEP 905.01(a) Recommended Types of Secrecy Orders for Patent Applications MPEP 120 Type II Secrecy Order for Patent Applications with Classified Data MPEP 120 Type I Secrecy Order for Patent Applications MPEP 120 Interference Search for Secrecy Order Applications MPEP 1302.08 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does CPC classification handle &#8220;additional information&#8221;? What is the difference between application and functional classification places in CPC? What is C-STAR (C*) information in CPC classification and why is it important? What is a C-STAR (C*) in CPC classification? What are combination sets in CPC classification?