2. Manual of Classification (available at Cooper Library on the internet, in paper, or DVD-ROM)

Locate class and subclass numbers (from Step 1) in the Manual of Classification. Note where the terms fall within the hierarchical U.S. Patent Classification System. Scan the entire class schedule, paying close attention to the dot indent. If using the internet version, click on the red "P" to get a listing of all patents in that class/subclass. (This is equivalent to Step 5 below.) Revise search strategy as needed.

Read the Classification Definitions to establish the scope of class(es) and subclass(es) relevant to the search. The definitions often include important search notes and suggestions for further searching. If using the internet version, you can do this by clciking on the class number from the Manual of Classification in Step 2.

4. CASSIS/BIB CD-ROM (available at Cooper Library)

See if you are on the right path: retrieve and browse through titles of patents issued in given class and subclass. Abstracts are included for the latest 2 years.  Or redirect the search: retrieve a list of patents containing applicable keywords; note their class(es) and subclass(es) and go back to step 2.

5. Subclass Listing - CASSIS/CLASS CD-ROM (available at Cooper Library)

Once relevant class(es)/subclass(es) are identified, print out a list of all patent numbers granted for each class/subclass searched.  The list goes all the way back to 1790.  You can also see abstracts of patents available for the most current few years.

6. Complete Patent Document (available at Cooper Library on the internet, DVD-ROM, or  microfilm.)

Search the complete text and drawings of closely related patents to find out how similar they are to your invention. If using the internet version, check the Cited References and Referenced By links to view related patents.

All patents are available on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's Home Page. However, only patents beginning with #3,930,271 (1976 - date) are completely searchable.  It is necessary to download a TIFF viewer to be able to view the patents.

Patents are available on DVD-ROM in the Patent/Tax Room. (See handout USAPat for details on how to retrieve them.)

Patents from #3,707,729 to #6,009,554 (1973 - 1999) are available on microfilm in the Reserve Room on the Level 2.

7. Patent Applications (available at Cooper Library on the internet, or DVD-ROM)

Search the complete text and drawings of closely related patent applications to find out how similar they are to your invention.

The USPTO will publish patent applications 18 months after filing (only if the applicant assures that there will be no foreign filing, or unless the applicant specifically asks that it not be published.)

Published patent applications beginning from March 15, 2001 (the date of the first published application) are available on the USPTO home page, which is linked above. It is necessary to download a TIFF viewer to be able to view the applications. (See handout on Searching the Patent Application Database for more information.)

Published patent applications beginning from March 15, 2001 are also available on DVD-ROM in the Patents/Tax Room. It is necessary to know the application number in order to view the application. (See handout USAApp for details on how to retrieve them.)

Comments to: Jan Comfort