6.1.8.2 The Three Person Team (3PT)

Also in this Chapter:

• 6.1.8.1 Introduction

• 6.1.8.3 Area of Search

• 6.1.8.4 Search Consideration

Related Chapters:

• 4.3.6 Applicant and/or Inventor Name Searching

• 4.4.1 Three Person Team (3PT)

When conducting original searches of national and international applications, the search examiner allocated the case is to convene a 3 person team (3PT) to formulate a search strategy for discovering relevant prior art documents.

The 3PT aims to formulate a search strategy such that the search can be carried out in the most economical way while ensuring a high probability of finding relevant prior art. The team should also take into account the preferred embodiments (the ‘inventive concept’), not just the broadest claim. The search strategy adopted should make as great a use as possible of any earlier search results.

For more information on the composition and role of the 3 person team, see 4.4.1 Three Person Team (3PT) and subsections therein.

In many cases, an applicant/inventor name search will also be required. The 3PT is responsible for determining whether one of the identified exceptions applies to the search strategy under development (see 4.3.6 Applicant and/or Inventor Name Searching).