Patent Classification System in India, Japan, United Kingdom and USA

Discusses, in general, the need for patents retrieval system and systematisation of patent documents in order to ensure effective utilisation. Compares the scope of existing library classification with patent classification. Traces the emergence of patent classification systems and the use of such systems in India, Japan, UK and USA. Describes in detail the structure indexes, ana principles of the respective national patent classification systems of India, UK and USA Narrates the efforts made in deSigning a world patent classification system which resulted in publication of the International Patent Classification (IPC). Outlines in detail its editions, objectives, purpose, sections, classes, groups and catchword index. Briefs the concept of hybrid system introduced in specific areas of IPC and the use of IPC in various industrial property offices of the wond. Patent classification System in India, Japan, United Kingdom, and USA.