What is the basis for classification in the U.S. Patent Classification System (USPC)?
The basis for classification in the U.S. Patent Classification System (USPC) is primarily outlined in the “Examiner Handbook to the U.S. Patent Classification System.” As stated in the MPEP:
“Many of the principles that form the basis of classification within USPC used in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office are set forth in the ‘Examiner Handbook to the U.S. Patent Classification System'”
This handbook is accessible to examiners through the USPTO’s intranet and to the public through the Office of Patent Classification home page. For questions not covered in the handbook, patent examiners and practitioners can contact the Office of Patent Classification directly.
To learn more: