How does the USPTO access patent family information?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 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. The USPTO accesses patent family information through various databases and tools. According to MPEP 901.07 : “Examiners can retrieve patent family information using the USPTO’s automated search tools…” These tools include: EAST (Examiner’s Automated Search Tool) WEST (Web-Based Examiner Search Tool) Global Dossier These systems provide access to patent family data from various sources, including foreign patent offices and international patent databases, enabling examiners to conduct comprehensive prior art searches and analyze related patent documents efficiently. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Examiners Can Access Patent Family Data MPEP 901.07 Permitted Examiners Access Patent Family Through Databases MPEP 901.07 Examiners Can Request Foreign Patent Searches Through STIC MPEP 901.07 Permitted Foreign Patent Searches Through STIC Permitted MPEP 901.07 Patent Examiners May Use WPI or INPADOC MPEP 901.07 Permitted Requirement for Examiner's Action Under 1.104(a)(1) MPEP 901 WPI Database Requirement for In-House Search Integration MPEP 901.07 WPI In-House for Additional Searches MPEP 901.07 Required WPI In-House First Choice for Publication Dates and Patent Families MPEP 901.07 Same Prior Art for Reissue as Original MPEP 1440 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the Common Citation Document website and how do examiners use it? What is the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system? How does the Global Dossier Initiative benefit patent examiners? What is patent family information and how can examiners access it? How does patent family information assist in prior art searches?