What are the main sources of foreign patent documents for USPTO examiners?
USPTO examiners have access to various sources of foreign patent documents, including:
- Digests of foreign patent documents
- Abstracts of foreign patent documents
- Photographic and photostatic copies of entire foreign patent documents
The MPEP states: “In general, these foreign patent documents provide a source of technological teachings and prior art accessible to the examiner.” (Source: MPEP 901.05)
Examiners can access these documents through specialized databases and search tools provided by the USPTO, ensuring comprehensive prior art searches.
To learn more: