What are C* designations in patent application classification?
C* designations refer to Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) symbols used to classify patent applications. These designations play a crucial role in the automated routing of applications to appropriate examiners.
According to MPEP 909.01(a):
“…the assigned examiner may submit a classification challenge to have a C* designation added and/or a C* designation removed.”
C* designations represent specific technical categories within the CPC system. They are used to accurately describe the subject matter of a patent application, which in turn helps in assigning the application to an examiner with the relevant expertise. If an examiner believes that a C* designation is incorrectly applied or missing, they can initiate a classification challenge to rectify the situation.
To learn more: