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Advanced Patent Searching Techniques (USPTO and Other Resources)

The U.S. Patent Classification System

 

 

The U.S. Patent Classification System

Advanced patent searching invariably entails searching by means of the classification system. Keyword searching is a perfectly valid method for beginning a patent search, particularly if you do not know, or if you are uncertain about, the class and subclass that comprehends the subject matter that interests you.

However, advanced patent searching is an iterative process that combines keyword and classification search methods.

Some very useful tools are available to help you to navigate the patent classification system in an efficient manner.

These tools include:

  • The Manual of Patent Classification

     

  • The Index to Patent Classification

 

 

The Manual of Patent Classification

  • The Manual of Patent Classification features all of the patent classes, subclasses, and their definitions.

     

  • The Manual can be easily searched at the USPTO's Patent Classification website.

     

  • You may also search the Manual at the USPTO's Class Numbers and Titles website.

     

  • A very nice feature of the Class Numbers and Titles website is the ability to quickly search all patents assigned to a particular class and subclass by clicking on the "P" icon next to the subclass.

     

  • You can also quickly obtain definitions of classes and subclasses by clicking on class and subclass numbers.

     

  • An alternative site for the Manual is available.

 

The Index to Patent Classification

  • The Index to Patent Classification is "an alphabetical list of subjects referring to specific classes and subclasses in the classification system" and which "allows one to locate the proper class and subclass in the Manual"

     

  • To search the Index, use the USPTO's Patent Classification website (select the Index from the pulldown menu.

     

     

  • There is an alternative site for the Index.

 

An excellent help document on the U.S. Patent Classification System is available on the USPTO website.

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