How do USPTO examiners cite foreign patent documents?
USPTO examiners cite foreign patent documents according to specific guidelines outlined in the MPEP. The citation should include:
- The country or patent office that issued the document
- The identifying number of the document
- The date of publication of the document
For example: “German Patent No. DD 867,898, Jul. 5, 1952, Name of Patentee, Title of Invention (if available)“
The MPEP advises: “In citing foreign patents, the examiner will place the patent letters or numbers used by the country of origin in the citation.” (Source: MPEP 901.05)
This standardized citation format ensures clarity and consistency in referencing foreign prior art throughout the examination process.
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