What search tools are available to patent examiners?
Patent examiners have access to a wide variety of manual and automated search tools. These tools cover three main reference sources:
- Domestic patents (including patent application publications)
- Foreign patent documents
- Nonpatent literature (NPL)
The MPEP 904.02 states, “Examiners are provided access to a wide variety of both manual and automated search tools. Choice of search tools is a key factor in ensuring that the most relevant prior art is found during the search.”
Specific tools may include:
- Classified search tools
- Text search capabilities
- Specialized tools for chemical structures or DNA sequences
- NPL search tools
Examiners are encouraged to use the services of trained professional online search personnel for complex NPL searching. The MPEP advises, “In recognition that there are many available NPL search tools and their use is often complex, examiners have been provided and are encouraged to use the services of trained professional online search personnel located in the Technology Centers’ EICs for NPL searching.”
To learn more: