6.1.1 Procedural Outline - PCT International Search

Also in this Chapter:

• 6.1.2 Introduction - International Searching​​​​​​​

• 6.1.3 Search Allocation and Preliminary Classification
• 6.1.4 Unity of Invention
• 6.1.5 Abstract and Title
• 6.1.6 Subjects to be Excluded from the Search
• 6.1.7 Claim Interpretation, Broad Claims, PCT Articles 5 and 6​​​​​​​
• 6.1.8 Search Strategy
• 6.1.9 Basis of the Search​​​​​​​
• 6.1.10 Non-Patent Literature
• 6.1.11 Search Procedure
• 6.1.12 Search Report and Notification Form Completion
• 6.1.13 Reissued, Amended or Corrected ISRs and ISOs
• 6.1.14 Priority Document
• 6.1.15 Foreign Patent Search Aids and Documentation
• 6.1.16 Assistance with Foreign Languages
• 6.1.17 Rule 91 Obvious Mistakes in Documents
• 6.1.18 Nucleotide and/or Amino Acid Sequence Listings
• 6.1.19 Annexes

Key Related Topics:

• 6.3.5.3 PCT Third Party Observations

1. Initial processing by PCT Unit
2. Technology sorting process to assign case to relevant section
3. Section allocates to search examiner, concurrently a classification task(s) will be created and assigned accordingly
4. Where priority is claimed, check that correct priority document is uploaded
5. Consider unity of invention
6. Consider excluded subject matter
7. Check abstract & figure (draft an abstract if required)
8. Examine specification and check for formality issues
9. Earlier search (including PCT third party observations – see 6.3.5.3 PCT Third Party Observations)
10. Perform preliminary search using Auto Prelim Search tool
11. Formulate a search strategy and determine a consolidated search strategy in consultation with a three person team.
12. Conduct search using EPOQUE (and/or other search tools as required)
13. Search non-patent literature (NPL) as required and order relevant non patent literature from the Library if not readily available from the internet
14. Download and store all citations relating to a PCT application to COMPASS
15. Prepare Written Opinion of the International Searching Authority (ISO), International Search Report (ISR) and Search Information Statement (SIS) within RIO
16. Refunds for earlier search (if applicable)
17. Submit the task (the SIS, ISO and ISR will be dispatched pending any Quality Assurance and/or Quality Review processes). Note the task can’t be completed if Classification has not completed.