What types of documents are included in the patent classification system?
According to MPEP 903.01, which cites 35 U.S.C. 8, the patent classification system includes:
“United States letters patent, and such other patents and printed publications as may be necessary or practicable”
This broad definition encompasses:
- U.S. patents
- Foreign patents
- Non-patent literature (printed publications)
The inclusion of various document types ensures a comprehensive collection of prior art for patent examiners to use in assessing the novelty and non-obviousness of patent applications.
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