What are the eight sections of the International Patent Classification?

The International Patent Classification (IPC) is divided into eight sections, each representing a broad field of technology. According to the MPEP, the eight sections are:

• A. Human Necessities
• B. Performing Operations; Transporting
• C. Chemistry; Metallurgy
• D. Textiles; Paper
• E. Fixed Constructions
• F. Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating; Weapons; Blasting
• G. Physics
• H. Electricity

These sections form the highest level of the IPC hierarchy and provide a broad categorization of all patentable inventions.

To learn more:

• IPC sections
• Patent classification sections
• Technology fields