Why is understanding foreign patent date formats important for patent research?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 4 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Understanding foreign patent date formats is crucial for accurate patent research and prior art searches. The MPEP 901.05(a) provides guidance on interpreting these dates because: Foreign patent publications use different date formats than Western standards Japanese patents use a unique system based on the Emperor’s reign Misinterpreting dates can lead to errors in determining patent priority or validity Properly understanding these formats ensures that researchers can accurately identify and date relevant prior art, which is essential for patent prosecution and litigation. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 4 rules Collapse Requirement for Examiner's Action Under 1.104(a)(1) MPEP 901 Electronic Office Action Notification for Patent Grants MPEP 1306.03 Same Prior Art for Reissue as Original MPEP 1440 Permitted Court Decisions and Litigation Papers for Reissue Examination MPEP 1442.04 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How do you convert Japanese patent dates to Western calendar years? How are dates formatted in foreign patent publications? How do Japanese patent application publications show dates? What do Roman numerals represent in foreign patent publication dates? Can an abandoned application be used as prior art?