What factors does the USPTO’s automated routing system consider when assigning patent applications to examiners?
The USPTO’s automated routing system considers several factors when assigning patent applications to examiners, as described in MPEP 909.01(b). These factors include:
- CPC classifications of the application
- Examiner portfolios (classification areas assigned to the examiner)
- Size of an examiner’s docket
- Case backlogs within a particular classification area
- Application’s status as a continuation or divisional application
The MPEP states: “Additional factors, such as the size of an examiner’s docket, case backlogs within a particular classification area, and the application’s status as a continuation or divisional application are weighted by the automated system prior to assignment of the application.”
This multi-faceted approach ensures a balanced and efficient distribution of patent applications among examiners based on their expertise and workload.
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