What is the Image File Wrapper (IFW) system and how does it affect patent examination?

The Image File Wrapper (IFW) system is a digital storage and retrieval system for patent application files. It has significantly impacted the patent examination process:

• Examiners can view application papers from their desktop via the Patent Examiner’s Toolkit.
• IFW files are readily accessible, eliminating the need for physical file retrieval in many cases.
• Non-IFW files (older applications) are stored at the Files Repository or remote warehouses.

As stated in MPEP 901.01(a): “If the patented or abandoned file is an Image File Wrapper (IFW) file, examiners can view the application papers from their desktop via the Patent Examiner’s Toolkit.” This system has streamlined the examination process by providing instant access to digital files, reducing delays associated with physical file retrieval.

To learn more:

• Image File Wrapper
• IFW
• patent examination
• digital files
• Patent Examiner’s Toolkit