What must patent examiners include in the “Search Notes” form?
Patent examiners are required to complete the “Search Notes” form in their first action on the merits of an application. According to the MPEP, the form must include:
- Classification locations of domestic and foreign patents
- Abstract collections
- Publications in which the search for prior art was made
- Other information collections and sources used in the prior art search
- The date(s) on which the search was conducted
The MPEP states: In the first action on the merits of an application, the examiner must complete the “Search Notes” form to include the classification locations of domestic and foreign patents, abstract collections, and publications in which the search for prior art was made. Other information collections and sources in which the search for prior art was made must also be identified by the examiner. The examiner must also indicate the date(s) on which the search was conducted.
For more details on documenting search information, refer to MPEP § 719.05.
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