How can patent classification systems improve your R&D patent search?

1 What are patent classification systems?

Patent classification systems are schemes that organize patents into groups based on their technical features, functions, or applications. They are designed to facilitate the retrieval and analysis of patent information by providing a common language and structure for patent examiners, researchers, and inventors. There are different patent classification systems used by different patent offices and organizations around the world, such as the International Patent Classification (IPC), the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC), and the US Patent Classification (USPC).

2 How do patent classification systems work?

Patent classification systems work by assigning one or more symbols or codes to each patent document, depending on its content and scope. These symbols or codes represent different levels of hierarchy, specificity, and granularity within the classification system. For example, the IPC consists of eight sections, each divided into classes, subclasses, groups, and subgroups. The CPC is based on the IPC, but adds more details and subdivisions. The USPC has its own structure and terminology, which differs from the IPC and the CPC.

3 How can patent classification systems benefit your R&D patent search?

Patent classification systems can benefit your R&D patent search in several ways. First, they can help you narrow down your search results by filtering out irrelevant patents and focusing on the most relevant ones. Second, they can help you expand your search scope by identifying related patents that may not be captured by keywords or phrases. Third, they can help you compare and contrast patents across different jurisdictions and domains by using a standardized and consistent framework. Fourth, they can help you discover new trends, patterns, and insights by analyzing the distribution and evolution of patents within a given classification.

4 How can you use patent classification systems for your R&D patent search?

To use patent classification systems for your R&D patent search, you need to follow some steps. First, you need to identify the classification system that best suits your needs and objectives. You can choose one or more systems depending on the coverage, depth, and compatibility of the patents you are interested in. Second, you need to familiarize yourself with the structure, terminology, and rules of the chosen classification system. You can use online tools, guides, or manuals to learn how to interpret and apply the symbols and codes. Third, you need to formulate your search query using the appropriate classification symbols and codes. You can use online databases, platforms, or software to access and search the patent documents. Fourth, you need to refine and analyze your search results using the classification system as a reference. You can use filters, statistics, or visualization tools to sort, compare, and evaluate the patents you find.

5 What are some challenges and limitations of patent classification systems?

Patent classification systems are not perfect and have some challenges and limitations that you need to be aware of. First, patent classification systems are not always consistent and accurate. They may vary in quality, completeness, and update frequency depending on the source, method, and criteria of the classification. Second, patent classification systems are not always comprehensive and exhaustive. They may not cover all the aspects, features, or applications of a patent, or they may not reflect the latest developments and innovations in a field. Third, patent classification systems are not always easy and intuitive to use. They may require a lot of time, effort, and expertise to understand and apply correctly.

6 What are some best practices and tips for using patent classification systems?

To overcome the challenges and limitations of patent classification systems, you need to follow some best practices and tips. First, you need to use multiple sources and methods of classification. You can cross-check, combine, or compare different classification systems, databases, or platforms to verify, enrich, or diversify your search results. Second, you need to use complementary search criteria and techniques. You can supplement your classification-based search with keywords, phrases, citations, or other indicators to capture more relevant and comprehensive patents. Third, you need to use critical thinking and creativity. You can question, challenge, or modify your search query and results using the classification system as a guide, not as a constraint.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?