Tutorials
Here are videos that may assist with understanding different aspects of the U.S. patent system, CPC classification, patent searching, and the application process.
- Why search for patents? What is a patent? Patent Searching BasicsThis short video (5:21) is part of the MIT Libraries video tutorial series. Learn about what a patent is and why patents can be important to your research.
- Classification Searching on the USPTO WebsiteWhile this Penn State PTRC video uses a USPTO interface that has since been retired, it is an excellent tool for understanding the CPC classification hierarchy.
To follow the "CPC Sections" walkthrough, from the USPTO homepage click Find It Fast--> Classification-->Additional Resources--> CPC --> Scheme - How to do a Patent SearchThis UCF produced video explains patent classification systems and demonstrates how to conduct a patent search using the classic version of Espacenet, the free global patent database of the European Patent Office.
- University of Michigan Library: Patent and TrademarksThe "Patent Searching Tutorial" video demonstrates searching Espacenet classic.
"A Quick Guide to Patent Research" PDF does same search using Espacenet Advanced Search.
Patent & Trademark Resource Center Librarian
Missy Murphey
she/her/hers