In the patent classification number, the next lower level classification is the major category.
A complete classification number consists of a combination of symbols representing a department, major category, subcategory, large group or subgroup. As shown in the red circle in the figure below, it is the representation of the complete patent classification number.
The International Patent Classification is an internationally accepted patent document classification. The classification number obtained by classifying patent documents (specifications) using the International Patent Classification is called the International Patent Classification number, usually abbreviated as IPC number.
IPC adopts the classification principle of combining functions and applications, with functionality as the main component and application as the supplement. In the form of a hierarchy, the technical content is indicated: Department - Division - Major Category - Small Category - Large Group - Small Group, and the classification is carried out step by step to form a complete classification system.
The patent classification numbers for invention and utility model patent applications are identified using the IPC international patent classification table. When the same patent may have several classification numbers, the first one is called the main classification number.
For example, if an invention patent application or utility model patent application involves different types of technical subjects, and these technical subjects constitute invention information, multiple classifications should be made according to the technical subjects involved, and multiple classifications should be given. classification number. Rank the classification number that best represents the invention information first.
The classification table is a tool for uniform classification of patent documents from various countries. Its basic purpose is to serve as an effective search tool for patent offices and other users in patent document searches to determine the novelty and creativity of patent applications (including evaluation of technological advancement and practical value).