How are patent assignment documents filed and stored at the USPTO?

How are patent assignment documents filed and stored at the USPTO?

The USPTO has a specific process for filing and storing patent assignment documents. According to MPEP 317:

“All recorded assignments are scanned and stored in an electronic database.”

This means that once an assignment is recorded, it is digitized for easy access and long-term storage. The electronic database allows for efficient retrieval and management of assignment records. Additionally, the MPEP notes:

“The original document is returned to the sender with a notation of the reel and frame numbers.”

This process ensures that the original document is returned to the sender while maintaining a digital copy for USPTO records. The reel and frame numbers serve as reference points for locating the scanned document in the electronic database.

For more information on patent assignments, visit: patent assignments.

For more information on USPTO procedures, visit: USPTO procedures.