What is the Y section in the CPC scheme?
The Y section in the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) scheme is a special section dedicated to emerging technologies and cross-sectional technologies. According to MPEP 905.01, the Y section serves the following purposes:
- Covers new technological developments
- Addresses cross-sectional technologies that span multiple sections of the CPC
- Includes subject matter not covered by sections A-H
The MPEP states: “The Y section covers (i) new technological developments, (ii) cross-sectional technologies spanning over several sections of the CPC, and (iii) subject matter not covered by the other sections of the CPC.”
This special section ensures that the CPC scheme can accommodate rapidly evolving technologies and interdisciplinary inventions that may not fit neatly into the traditional classification structure.
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