Legal Definitions - Manual of Classification

A Manual of Classification is an official publication by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office that explains the patent classification system. It provides brief explanations of each class and subclass within the system. The manual is a looseleaf publication, which means it can be updated as needed.

For example, if you have an invention related to a new type of bicycle, you would need to classify it under the appropriate class and subclass in the patent classification system. The Manual of Classification would help you understand which class and subclass to choose based on the specific features of your invention.

The Manual of Classification is an important resource for patent examiners, patent attorneys, and inventors. It helps ensure that patents are classified correctly and consistently, which makes it easier to search for and find relevant patents.