CPC Patent Classification

The Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) system is a comprehensive and detailed patent classification system jointly developed by the European Patent Office (EPO) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This system is used by over 45 patent offices worldwide and is designed to provide a consistent and harmonized classification of patent documents. This guide provides an overview of the CPC system and how it can be used to streamline the patent search and application process.

Table of Contents

• Overview of CPC
• Structure of CPC Codes
• Benefits of Using CPC
• How to Search Using CPC
• Navigating the CPC System
• CPC vs. IPC

Overview of CPC

The CPC system was launched in 2013 to replace the European Classification (ECLA) and the United States Patent Classification (USPC) systems. It integrates the best practices of both systems and provides a more detailed classification scheme.

• Harmonization: CPC aims to harmonize patent classification across multiple jurisdictions, making it easier to conduct international patent searches.
• Accessibility: The CPC system is publicly accessible and can be used by inventors, patent attorneys, and researchers to classify and search for patents.

Structure of CPC Codes

CPC codes are alphanumeric and follow a hierarchical structure, allowing for detailed classification. A typical CPC code consists of:

• Section: The highest level, represented by a single letter (e.g., A for Human Necessities).
• Class: Represented by two digits (e.g., A61 for Medical or Veterinary Science).
• Subclass: Represented by a letter following the class (e.g., A61K for Preparations for Medical, Dental, or Toilet Purposes).
• Main Group: Represented by one to three digits followed by a slash and one or more digits (e.g., A61K 8/00 for Cosmetics or Similar Toilet Preparations).
• Subgroup: More specific subdivisions of main groups (e.g., A61K 8/02 for Skin-care Preparations).

Benefits of Using CPC

The CPC system offers several advantages over other classification systems:

• Detail and Specificity: CPC provides more detailed classifications, which can improve the precision of patent searches.
• Consistency: It promotes consistency in patent classification, facilitating easier and more reliable comparisons of patent documents across different jurisdictions.
• Enhanced Searchability: With its detailed and structured classification, the CPC system enhances the searchability of patents, helping users find relevant documents more efficiently.

How to Search Using CPC

Using CPC codes for patent searches can significantly improve the accuracy and relevance of your results. Here’s how to get started:

• Identify Relevant CPC Codes: Determine the CPC codes that are most relevant to your invention or area of interest.
• Use Patent Databases: Utilize patent databases like Espacenet, the USPTO’s Patent Full-Text and Image Database (PatFT), and Google Patents to search using CPC codes.
• Combine Search Criteria: Use CPC codes in combination with keywords, inventor names, and filing dates to refine your search results.

Navigating the CPC System

Navigating the CPC system may seem complex at first, but these tips can help:

• CPC Scheme Viewer: Use the CPC Scheme Viewer provided by the EPO and USPTO to browse and understand the classification hierarchy.
• CPC Definitions: Refer to CPC definitions for detailed descriptions and examples of specific codes.
• Stay Updated: CPC classifications are periodically updated, so ensure you are using the most current version.

CPC vs. IPC

While the CPC and the International Patent Classification (IPC) systems share similarities, they also have key differences:

• Detail: CPC offers more detailed classifications compared to IPC, which can lead to more precise searches.
• Updates: CPC is updated more frequently than IPC, reflecting the latest technological advancements and trends.
• Usage: CPC is used by a growing number of patent offices globally, while IPC remains the international standard.

By understanding and utilizing the CPC system, you can improve the efficiency and accuracy of your patent searches and ensure your innovations are properly classified. For more resources on patent classification and international patent laws, visit our Navigating International Patent Laws: A Guide for Global Innovators page.