-
Aligned ApproachUtilizing a search methodology aligned with the USPTO’s recommended classification-based strategy is much more likely to yield results which may come up in the examination process -
Maintain PrioritySince any new inventive subject matter will be given a later priority date than your original submission, it is vital to be equipped with a comprehensive search yielding the most relevant documents -
GlobalOver reliance on keywords can result in missing relevant references, specifically for generically worded or foreign patent documents -
ExperienceSerco has classified over 4 million patent applications over the past decade for the USPTO -
Continual RefinementOur process of identifying key aspects and assigning the most relevant classifications has been continually refined and we continually update our systems to use the most current classification schemes -
Language-IndependentSince classification systems are designed to be language-independent, detailed classification mapping enables far more relevant and streamlined discovery of prior art
According to the USPTO “The use of patent classification in searching for U.S. patents and published applications results in a more comprehensive search than one done by word and phrases (keyword searching). Because keyword searching must anticipate the often technical language of patents, it serves best as a supplement to a classification search.” Source: uspto.gov
What is Classification?
Patent Classification systems are systems of codes assigned to patent documents to enable language-independent prior art retrieval.
Patent classification systems organize patent documents into specific technology grouping based on common subject matter to enable documents having similar subject matter to be retrieved quickly and effectively.
There are four major classification systems each comprised of thousands of codes and each having their own nuances and rules for classification.
There are four major classifications systems, each consisting of a large number of codes
| Classification System | Number of Possible Codes |
|---|---|
| Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) | 250,000+ |
| United States Patent Classification (USPC) | 153,000+ |
| International Patent Classification (IPC) | 73,000+ |
| Japanese Classification System FI term list | 190,000+ |
| Japanese Classification System F term list | 360,000+ |
| Total Number of Possible Classification Codes | 1,026,000+ |
The most widely used classification system is the Cooperative Patent Classification System or CPC.
- CPC is comprised of over 250,000 codes divided into different sections, classes, main-groups, sub-groups and indexing codes.
- This system utilizes a complex set of rules including limiting references, non-limiting references, priority rules as well as specific definitions for most codes.
Serco IP has years of experience particular to the CPC system enabling us to understand this complex system and determine classifications quickly and efficiently.
With over 1 million possible classification codes to choose from, it’s easy to miss important codes which would result in incomplete search results, complicated litigation procedures and an increased risk of rejection. While classification provides a very powerful and sophisticated foundation for effective search, very few working outside of the patent offices understand the nuances to employ it effectively.
Our process of identifying key aspects and assigning classifications has been continually refined.
Serco has been a provider of classification services to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for over a decade.
How does Classification Benefit You?
Utilizing a search methodology aligned with the USPTO’s recommended approach is much more likely to yield results which may come up in the examination process.
Contact Us
Request a Quote
Contact us to start your patent search now.