Changes to the IPC effective from January 2011

On January 1, 2011, some changes to the International Patent Classification (IPC) scheme entered into force. The most significant impact on the structure of the IPC is that it no longer has a "core" and an "advanced" level. Only one text of the IPC is currently published, corresponding to the former advanced level. Small patent offices have the option to classify using main groups only instead of the former core level. A second change, already introduced on January 2010, was to abandon the difference between the three-month (advanced level) or three-year (core level) rhythm for revisions to the IPC, replacing it with an annual revision, in January of each year.In addition to these functional changes, the schemes were revised in a number of technical areas.

► New edition of the IPC, from January 2011.
► ‘Core’ and ‘advanced’ levels abandoned.
► Annual revision process set in place.
► Major revision in nanotechnology, pictorial communication and air conditioning.
► Future developments centre on the Common Hybrid Classification.