How does subclass harmonization affect patent searches?

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.

Subclass harmonization significantly impacts patent searches by creating a more unified classification system across major patent offices. The MPEP’s description of harmonized subclasses between the USPC, EPO, and JPO indicates that:

“Subclasses that have been harmonized have a designation of “EPO,” “JPO,” or “EPO/JPO” in parentheses following the subclass title to indicate if the subclass has been harmonized with the EPO or JPO or with both systems.”

This harmonization allows searchers to:

• Use consistent classification codes across different patent databases
• Conduct more comprehensive prior art searches
• Reduce the likelihood of missing relevant patents due to classification differences
• Save time by avoiding the need to translate between different classification systems

Overall, harmonized subclasses enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of patent searches, particularly for those conducting global patent landscape analyses or international patentability assessments.