Topic outline

  • Introduction

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     This is an e-learning module developed by the European Patent Office.

    CPC stands for Cooperative Patent Classification. This is the name of the new patent classification system which has been jointly developed by the EPO and USPTO. The CPC will align patent procedures more closely and deliver substantial efficiency gains, at the same time as incorporating the best classification practices of the two offices and helping to eliminate duplication of work. 

     CONTENTS:

    1 What is the CPC?

    • What is the CPC?
    • Transition period for existing systems

    2 The structure of CPC

    • Structure of the CPC
    • Hierarchical levels and naming conventions
    • From sections to groups
    • Specific classification information
    • Searching with the CPC: what's different?

    3 Revision and training

    • Revision
    • Training