THE SEVEN-STEP STRATEGY:

SEARCHING A NEW INVENTION

AT A PATENT AND TRADEMARK DEPOSITORY (With some Internet links also!)

1. Index to the U.S. Patent Classification (paper, CD-ROM or on the Internet at http://metalab.unc.edu/patents/intopat.html)

Begin with this alphabetical subject index to the Manual of Classification. Look up common terms describing the invention and its function, effect, end-product, structure, and use. Note class and subclass numbers.

2. Manual of classification (paper, CD-ROM or on the Internet at http://metalab.unc.edu/patents/intropat.html)

Locate class and subclass numbers in the Manual. Note where the terms fall within the U.S. Patent Classification System. Scan the entire class schedule, paying attention to the dot indent. Revise search strategy as needed.

3. Classification Definitions(microfiche, CD-ROM or on the Internet at http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/pac/clasdefs/index.html)

Read the definitions to establish the scope of class(es) and subclass(es) relevant to the search. The definitions include important search notes and suggestions for further search.

4. CASSIS/BIB (CD-ROM or at the USTPO internet site at http://www.uspto.gov/patft/index.html)

Find out if you are on the right path: retrieve and browse through titles of patents issued in given class and subclass. Or redirect the search: retrieve lists of patents containing applicable keywords; note their class and subclass numbers and go back to step 2.

5. Subclass Listing (CD-ROM or microfilm)

Once relevant class(es)/subclass(es) are identified, obtain a list of all patent numbers granted for every class and subclass to be searched.

6. Official Gazette - Patent Section (microform or paper)

Go to the Official Gazette and look up summaries of all patents on the list(s) to eliminate patents unrelated to the invention.

7. View the complete Patent Document (on microfilm or CD-ROM at a Patent and Trademark Depository Library (Wichita State University Library is one!), or at the IBM site for patents back to 1971 at www.ibm.com/patents. Search the complete text and drawing(s) of closely related patents to find out how different they are from the invention.

a:\7stepstrat.wpd Updated 12/2/99 GG