What is the Scientific and Technical Information Center (STIC) and its role in patent examination?

The Scientific and Technical Information Center (STIC) is a crucial resource for patent examiners at the USPTO. According to MPEP 901.06(a), STIC’s main functions include:

• Maintaining Electronic Information Centers (EICs) in each Technology Center
• Assisting patent examiners with prior art searches
• Providing document delivery services
• Offering access to foreign patent copies and translations
• Providing access to non-patent literature in electronic and print formats

STIC’s resources are essential for examiners to determine whether claims in patent applications are anticipated by prior art under 35 U.S.C. 102 or obvious under 35 U.S.C. 103.

To learn more:

• STIC
• patent examination
• prior art search
• nonpatent literature
• USPTO resources