Legal Definitions - series code

A series code is a numerical identifier used by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to categorize and organize different types of patent or trademark applications. It serves as the initial part of a complete application number, typically followed by a slash, and helps the USPTO efficiently manage the vast number of submissions it receives. These codes group applications based on factors such as the type of intellectual property, the nature of the filing, or the period in which they were submitted.

Here are some examples illustrating how series codes are used:

• Example 1: Provisional Patent Application
  Imagine an inventor has developed a groundbreaking new algorithm for artificial intelligence and wants to secure an early filing date for their idea without submitting a full patent application immediately. They file a provisional patent application. The application number assigned by the USPTO might look like 60/123,456.

  In this scenario, "60" is the series code. This code specifically designates the application as a provisional patent application, which is a temporary filing that establishes a priority date for the invention, allowing the inventor more time to develop their invention and prepare a non-provisional application.

• Example 2: Design Patent Application
  Consider a fashion designer who has created a unique and aesthetically distinctive pattern for a new line of handbags. To protect the ornamental appearance of this design, they submit a design patent application to the USPTO. The application number for this filing might be 29/789,012.

  Here, "29" is the series code. This code immediately informs the USPTO that the application pertains to a design patent, which protects the visual characteristics of an item, rather than its functional aspects, distinguishing it from other types of patent applications.

• Example 3: Trademark Application
  Suppose a new beverage company is launching a unique brand of sparkling water and wants to protect its distinctive brand name and logo. They file a trademark application with the USPTO. The application number for their trademark might appear as 75/345,678.

  In this instance, "75" is the series code. This numerical prefix indicates that the filing is a trademark application, which seeks to protect brand elements like names, logos, and slogans, helping the USPTO to categorize and process it correctly within the vast system of intellectual property filings.