How does the USPTO access patent family information?
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.
To learn more: