A01 - Definition

Glossary of terms

In this class, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A01B - Definition

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

A01D - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Methods, apparatus or hand tools for

• Separation of useful parts of plants (e.g. seeds, fruits, roots, stalks or leaves) from the remainder of the plants in the place where the plants are grown;
• Mowing of plants (e.g. grass or cereals), regardless of whether the intention is to make use of the mown plants or not;
• Gathering of whole plants (e.g. root crops or onions) or their useful parts (e.g. fallen fruit) from where the plants grow or from the ground;
• Haymaking, i.e. working on mown forage crop lying on the ground with the intention to make hay.

Hand rakes.

Forks.

Non-abrasive sharpening devices for scythes, sickles or the like.

Containers for whetstones for use during harvesting.

Machines specially adapted for binding of harvested hay, straw or similar crops in the field.

Arrangements for making or setting of stacks, used in connection with harvesting.

Vehicles specially adapted for carrying harvested crops with means for self-loading or unloading.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

Combined or convertible apparatus

This subclass covers mowers combined with apparatus performing additional operations (e.g. threshing) while mowing, mowers convertible to apparatus for purposes other than mowing (e.g. for sweeping snow), and mowers capable of performing operations other than mowing (e.g. soil-working). The non-mowing parts of such mowers are only covered by this subclass if they are immediately associated with the mowing parts or the mowing process. Otherwise they are covered by the places for the non-mowing operations.

This subclass covers digging harvesters (e.g. for root crops) combined with apparatus performing additional operations (e.g. topping, separating or planting) while harvesting. The non-harvesting parts of such combinations are only covered by this subclass if they are immediately associated with the harvesting parts or the harvesting process. Otherwise they are covered by the places for the non-harvesting operations.

Hand tools for soil working

This subclass covers hand tools for soil working when specially adapted for harvesting, for example of root crops. This subclass also covers rakes and forks. A01B covers hand tools for soil working in general, e.g. spades, shovels or hoes, with the exception of rakes and forks.

Binding

This subclass covers apparatus specially adapted for binding of harvested hay, straw or similar crops, with the exception of stationary apparatus or hand tools, which are covered by A01F 1/00, and binding apparatus specially adapted for baling presses, which is covered by A01F 15/14. Binding in general is covered by B65B, for example B65B 13/00 and B65B 27/12.

Shredding or pulverising

This subclass covers the shredding or pulverising of stubble or other vegetation in situ, e.g. for the purpose of producing mulch, but does not cover other mechanical destruction of unwanted vegetation, which is covered by group A01M 21/02.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A01D 3/00 - Definition

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A01D 5/00 - Definition

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A01D 7/00 - Definition

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A01D 23/04 - Definition

Informative references

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A01D 37/00 - Definition

Informative references

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A01D 41/00 - Definition

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A01D 59/00 - Definition

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A01D 59/12 - Definition

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A01D 61/00 - Definition

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A01D 75/08 - Definition

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A01D 75/18 - Definition

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A01D 75/20 - Definition

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A01D 87/00 - Definition

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A01D 90/00 - Definition

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A01F - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

The scope of this subclass is composed of five separate parts, relating to the five parts of the subclass title. For ease of reference each section of these definitions is separated under five corresponding simplified headings: "Threshing", "Baling", "Bundling", "Cutting" and "Storing".

Threshing (relating to main groups A01F 5/00-A01F 12/00 and A01F 17/00-A01F 21/00):

Methods and apparatus for separating grains or seeds from harvested plants or plant parts by mechanical action.

Baling (relating to main groups A01F 13/00-A01F 21/00):

Methods and apparatus for forming bales of straw, hay or like harvested products of plant origin.

Bundling (relating to main group A01F 1/00):

Stationary apparatus or hand tools for forming or binding bundles of straw, hay or like harvested products of plant origin.

Cutting (relating to main groups A01F 3/00 and A01F 29/00):

Apparatus specially adapted for cutting or disintegrating straw, hay or like already harvested products of plant origin.

Storing (relating to main group A01F 25/00):

Mechanical aspects (e.g. materialhandlingaspects) of apparatus (e.g. silos) or methods that are specially adapted for storing harvested agricultural or horticultural crops.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

Threshing

Main groups A01F 5/00-A01F 12/00 and A01F 17/00-A01F 21/00 provide for threshing devices and for accessories that are directly connected with threshing. Combines, and details of combines that are not directly connected with the threshing action (e.g. mowing, feeding or vehicular features) are covered by A01D.

Baling

Main groups A01F 13/00-A01F 21/00 are application-oriented places for methods or apparatus for baling that are specially adapted for straw, hay or like harvested products of plant origin. Baling of compressible fibrous material in general is provided for in B65B 27/12. Baling presses in general is provided for in B30B 9/30. Bales of material are provided for in B65D 71/00.

Bundling

Main group A01F 1/00 is an application-oriented place for stationary apparatus or hand tools for bundling, which are specially adapted for straw, hay or like harvested products of plant origin. Binding of harvested products by mobile apparatus in the field is provided for in A01D, for example in A01D 37/00A01D 39/00 and A01D 59/00. Bundling of compressible fibrous material in general is provided for in B65B 27/12. Bundling of articles in general is provided for in B65B 13/00.

Cutting

Main groups A01F 3/00 and A01F 29/00 are application-oriented places for apparatus or methods that are specially adapted for cutting up or disintegrating straw, hay or like already harvested products of plant origin. Mowing and other cutting down of standing plants is covered by A01D and A01G. Cutting in general is covered by B26. Disintegrating in general, e.g. by rotating knives, is covered by B02C.

Storing

Main group A01F 25/00 is an application-oriented place for mechanical aspects (e.g. materialhandlingaspects) of apparatus or methods that are specially adapted for storing harvested agricultural or horticultural crops. Containers for storage of articles or materials in general is covered by B65D. Storing and associated handling of bulk material or articles in general is covered by B65G. Civil-engineering aspects of silos or similar bulk storage containers are covered by section E, for example E04H 7/00.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A01H - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

New plants (including multicellular algae, multicellular fungi and lichens).

Processes for modifying genotypes or phenotypes.

Plant reproduction by tissue culture techniques.

Methods or apparatus for producing changes in chromosome number.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

A01K 5/00 - Definition

Glossary of terms

In this main group, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A01K 7/00 - Definition

Glossary of terms

In this main group, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A01K 9/00 - Definition

Glossary of terms

In this main group, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A01M 29/10 - Definition

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A01M 29/12 - Definition

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A01M 29/14 - Definition

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A01M 29/16 - Definition

Informative references

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A01M 29/22 - Definition

Informative references

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Special rules of classification

A01M 29/16 takes precedence.

A01M 29/24 - Definition

Informative references

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A01M 29/28 - Definition

Informative references

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A01M 29/30 - Definition

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A01M 29/34 - Definition

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A01N - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Compositions, physical forms thereof, and the application or method of use of specific materials, compositions, or single compounds for the following purposes:

• Preserving or preventing the decay of dead human or animal bodies or parts thereof
• Preserving living parts of human or animal bodies
• Preserving or maintaining the freshness of plants or plant parts
• Reducing the noxious effect of active ingredients on organisms other than unwanted organisms
• Killing or preventing the growth or proliferation of unwanted organisms (e.g. insects, weeds, micro-organisms)
• Repelling (i.e. resisting, warding off) or luring pests
• Affecting plant growth through a chemical modification of the metabolism of plants using plant growth regulators, such as auxins.

Compositions used to protect the wound and scions of newly grafted plants or to cover the wounds on pruned plants (i.e. grafting wax).

Chemical agents used for the sexual sterilization of invertebrates (e.g. insects).

Relationship between large subject matter areas

While substances that chemically modify a plant's metabolism are classified in A01N, compositions that affect the growth of a plant solely by supplying nutrients ordinarily required for growth, e.g. fertiliser, plant food, are classified in C05. Materials used to prevent or cure mineral deficiencies in plants, such as iron chelates used to cure iron chlorosis, are also classified in C05.

The activities (e.g. rodenticidal, herbicidal) of biocidal, pest repellent, pest attractant or plant growth regulatory preparations must also be classified in A01P, when such activities are determined to be invention information.

When biocides, pest repellents, pest attractants or plant growth regulators are compounds or contain compounds which are determined to be invention information, the compounds must also be classified in C01C07, C08, or C12N. When these compounds are considered to be of interest for search purposes, they may also be classified in C01C07, C08, or C12N.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

In groups A01N 27/00-A01N 65/00, in the absence of an indication to the contrary, classification is made in the last appropriate place for an active ingredient.

A composition, i.e. a mixture of two or more active ingredients is classified in the last of groups A01N 27/00-A01N 65/00 that provides for at least one of these active ingredients.

Any part of a composition which is not identified by classification according to the last appropriate place of an active ingredient, and which itself is determined to be novel and non-obvious, must also be classified. The part can be either a single ingredient or a composition in itself.

Any part of a composition which is not identified by the classification according the last appropriate place, and which is considered to represent information of interest for search, may also be classified. This can for example be the case when it is considered of interest to enable searching of compositions using a combination of classification symbols. Such non-obligatory classification should be given as "additional information".

Where a compound is described as existing in tautomeric forms, it is classified as if existing in the form which is classified last in the system.

Compounds that are covered by different main groups because of alternatively specified functional groups or other structural features of their formulae are classified in each relevant main group.

Salts formed between two or more organic compounds are classified as the compound providing the essential ion and is also classified as the compound providing the other ion.

Salts or metal chelates of an organic compound are classified as the compound.

In this subclass, a foodstuff is not considered to be an active ingredient.

Different materials applied in sequence, at different times, are considered to be a mixture of all materials employed.

Synergistic or potentiated compositions are classified as if the synergist or potentiator is an active ingredient.

In groups A01N 25/00-A01N 65/00, the symbol X means nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur or a halogen; Y means nitrogen, oxygen or sulfur. A dotted line between atoms indicates an optional bond, e.g. .... indicates one or two single bonds or a double bond.

Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A01N 25/00 - Definition

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A01N 25/18 - Definition

Informative references

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A23D - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Edible oil or fat compositions containing an aqueous phase, e.g. margarines, and their working-up and the preservation of finished products.

Other edible oils or fats, e.g. shortenings, cooking oils, microbial oils and their working-up and the preservation of finished products.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

Foods or foodstuffs containing edible oils or fats are classified in the relevant parts A21DA23G, A23L. Fats derived from milk are classified in A23C (e.g. A23C 13/00 and A23C 15/00).

C07C covers acyclic and carbocyclic compounds, e.g. esters of carboxylic acids (C07C 69/00), but not their use in food stuff which is covered by A23D.

C11B covers the production and purification/refining of oils and fats as well as their recovery from waste material, but not limited to those oils and fats which are suitable for use in foodstuffs. C11B does not cover mixtures of fats or oils with water or other edible oils or fats, which are covered by A23D.

C11C covers fatty acids that are not or no longer esterified with glycerol (although the process or esterification of said fatty acids with glycerol is covered) and their modifications, as well as candles.

A23L 1/29 covers food with modified nutritive qualities, e. g. dietetic food, functional food.

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A23D 7/05 - Definition

Glossary of terms

In this group, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A23F - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Tea.

Tea substitutes, e.g. mate, lemon balm, rose hips.

Extracts or infusions of tea and tea substitutes.

Tea flavour, tea oil.

Methods of manufacturing, preparing and modifying tea and tea substitutes, e.g. oxidation, fermentation, removing caffeine, extraction, drying, concentrating, flavouring.

Coffee.

Coffee substitutes, e.g. grain coffee.

Extracts or infusions of coffee and coffee substitutes.

Coffee flavour, coffee oil.

Methods of manufacturing, preparing and modifying coffee and coffee substitutes, e.g. treating green coffee, roasting, grinding, removing caffeine, extraction, drying, concentrating, flavouring.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

This subclass does not cover chemical compounds, e.g. alkaloids such as caffeine, theophylline, theobromine, or their preparation as such, which subject matter is covered by classes C07 (organic chemistry) and C08 (organic macromolecular compounds).

Physical or chemical processes or apparatus in general, e.g. boiling, extraction or filtration, are covered by class B01.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the words "Lyophilisation" and "freeze-drying" are often used as synonyms.

A23J - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Obtaining of protein compositions for foodstuffs, e.g. from meat, fish or sea animals, blood, eggs, hair, cereals, leguminous or other vegetable seeds, waste water, yeasts or milk.

Bulk opening of eggs and separation of yolks from whites.

Working-up of proteins for foodstuffs, e.g. by texturising using freezing, extrusion, expansion, coagulation from or in a bath; by hydrolysis using chemical agents or enzymes.

Phosphatide compositions for foodstuffs, e. g. lecithin.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

Phosphatides in oils or fats are classified in C11B

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

In groups A23J 3/04-A23J 3/20, in the absence of an indication to the contrary, classification is made in the last appropriate place.

Subject matter classified in groups A23J 3/22-A23J 3/30 is also classified in groups A23J 3/04-A23J 3/20, if the nature of the protein is of interest.

A23K - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Feeding-stuffs that are specially adapted, processed or formulated for non-human animals;

Processes that are specially adapted for production of such animal feeding-stuffs;

Processes that are specially adapted for preservation of materials (e.g. grass or roots) in order to produce such animal feeding-stuffs.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

This subclass only covers feeding-stuffs that are disclosed as being specially adapted, processed or formulated for non-human animals. Foods or foodstuffs that are of unspecified use or specially adapted for human beings are covered by other subclasses for foodstuffs (see the references below), for example the other subclasses of A23.

Processes for production of foods or foodstuffs that are of unspecified use, or specially adapted for human beings, are covered by the relevant subclasses therefor, see the references below.

Apparatus that is specially adapted for production of animal feeding-stuffs is covered by A23N 17/00.

Mechanical aspects that are of general utility are covered by other subclasses, see the references below.

This subclass only covers processes for preservation that are specially adapted for production of animal feeding-stuffs. Preservation of foods or food-stuffs that are of unspecified use or specially adapted for human beings, are covered by the relevant subclasses therefor, for example A23Band A23L 3/00 (see the references below).

Mechanical aspects of processes for preservation of materials in order to produce animal feeding-stuffs are classified in other subclasses, for example A01F 25/00 and F26B(see the references below).

Haymakers, i.e. apparatus for working on mown forage crop lying on the ground with the intention to make hay, are classified in A01D 76/00-A01D 84/00. Haymakers may include means for mechanical treatment of mown crops in the field, for example for crop-conditioning.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the expressions "feed" and "feedstuff" are often used instead of "feeding-stuffs", which is used in the classification scheme of this subclass.

A23K 1/00 - Definition

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A23K 1/04 - Definition

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A23K 1/14 - Definition

Informative references

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A23K 1/18 - Definition

Informative references

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A23K 3/02 - Definition

Informative references

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A23L - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Any foods, foodstuffs or non-alcoholic beverages that are not covered by the following subclasses:

• A21D (Treatment, e.g. preservation, of flour or dough for baking, e.g. by addition of materials; Baking; Bakery products; Preservation thereof)
• A23B (Preserving, e.g. by canning, meat, fish, eggs, fruit, vegetables, edible seeds; Chemical ripening of fruit or vegetables; The preserved, ripened, or canned products)
• A23C (Dairy products, e.g. milk, butter, cheese; Milk or cheese substitutes; Making thereof)
• A23D (Edible oils or fats, e.g. margarines, shortenings, cooking oils)
• A23F (Coffee; Tea; Their substitutes; Manufacture, preparation, or infusion thereof)
• A23G (Cocoa; Cocoa products, e.g. chocolate; Substitutes for cocoa or cocoa products; Confectionery; Chewing gum; Ice-cream; Preparation thereof)
• A23J (Protein compositions for foodstuffs; Working-up proteins for foodstuffs; Phosphatide compositions for foodstuffs).

Examples of foods, foodstuffs or non-alcoholic beverages covered by this subclass are:

• Foods or foodstuffs containing gelling or thickening agents;
• Marmalades, jams, jellies or similar products;
• Honey, royal jelly or other apiculture products;
• Cereal-derived products including pasta;
• Malt products, puddings or cream substitutes;
• Spices, flavouring agents or condiments, whether natural or synthetic; artificial sweeteners; table salts;
• Meat, poultry, egg, fish or seafood products;
• Food consisting mainly of nut meat or seeds, e.g. peanut butter;
• Soups or sauces; and
• Non-alcoholic beverages, e.g. fruit or vegetable juices; dry compositions or concentrates thereof; preparation thereof.

Preparation or treatment of the above foods, foodstuffs or non-alcoholic beverages provided for in this subclass, including:

• Cooking e.g. by roasting or frying;
• Removing unwanted matter;
• Physical treatment e.g. with wave energy, electric or magnetic fields;
• Preparation of fruit or vegetables, e.g. to make snacks, chips, sauerkraut or pickles;
• Colouring or decolouring; and
• Modifying the nutritive qualities, e.g. by adding vitamins, minerals or dietary fibres.

Modification of such foods or beverages to change their nutritional content for dietary reasons, and these modified foods or beverages per se.

Preservation of foods or foodstuffs in general, e.g. by pasteurising, sterilising, heating, freezing, drying, pressurising, irradiation or treatment with chemicals, specially adapted for foods or foodstuffs.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

In relation to foods, foodstuffs or non-alcoholic beverages per se, and in relation to their preparation and treatment including physical treatment, this subclass is residual to subclasses A21DA23B, A23CA23D, A23FA23G or A23J. These subclasses relate to flour or dough (A21D), dairy products (A23C), edible oils or fats (A23D), coffee, tea or their substitutes (A23F), cocoa, chocolate, confectionery or ice-cream (A23G) and protein compositions (A23J).

In relation to preservation of foods or foodstuffs in general, this subclass is the primary home for this subject-matter. However, preservation subject matter specifically adapted for certain foods can also be found in any of the above subclasses. For example, preservation of flour or dough or bakery products is subject-matter for subclass A21D, and preservation of meat, fish, eggs, fruit, vegetables and edible seeds e.g. cereals is subject matter for subclass A23B. Preservation of milk or milk preparations is subject matter for subclass A23C.

In relation to preservation, deciding between this subclass and the other subclasses listed above is generally a matter of function or application (see Guide Paragraphs 85-87). Where the particular preservation technology is the main point of interest classification is made in this subclass, and where the application to particular foodstuffs is the main interest classification is made in the subclasses listed above. Some double-classification is evident.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A23L 1/222 - Definition

Glossary of terms

In this group, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A23L 1/307 - Definition

Glossary of terms

In this group, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A44B - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

The following fasteners or their essential parts:

• Buttons;
• Pins;
• Buckles or strap fasteners that are actuated or operated directly by hand and intended to releasably connect either (1) the ends of a single web or strap, or (2) the ends of two or more webs or straps together (e.g. safety belt buckles);
• Slide fasteners;
• "Other types" of fasteners that are actuated or operated directly by hand and frequently utilized or associated with accoutrements, garments, or haberdashery (e.g. snap fasteners, collar-studs). Appropriate 'other types' of fasteners must also be readily reusable and their normal securing or releasing operation not destructive or damaging to either the fastener itself or the structure it secures.

Making slide fasteners, touch-and-close fasteners (e.g. VELCRO®, hook-and-loop, barb-and-pile fabrics), and other fasteners of this subclass.

Accessories or ancillary devices for the fasteners of this subclass when they are used exclusively with one of the varieties of fasteners (e.g. button cards) or have their operations either influencing or being influenced by the operation of the fastener (e.g. slide fastener pulling cords).

The following additional devices associated with either the fasteners of this class or accoutrements, garments, and haberdashery:

• key rings;
• clamping or holding devices; and
• mock-fastening devices that merely look like the fasteners, or one of their essential parts, of this subclass but do not function as fasteners (e.g. ornamental buttons on coats, fake zippers on clothing).

Note

The only "other types" of fasteners appropriate for this subclass are those that are capable of use with or actually used with accoutrements, garments, or haberdashery. Therefore, it must be either a commonly known practice to use a particular type of fastener with accoutrements, garments, or haberdashery (e.g., snap fasteners) or the patent documents for a particular type of fastener must frequently disclose their use with accoutrements, garments, or haberdashery. However, it is not required that all, or even the majority, of the fasteners covered by a particular category of fastener be specially adapted for use, or disclose their intended use, with accoutrements, garments, or haberdashery.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

Fasteners per se that either (a) require a tool for completing their normal fastening (e.g. screws, nails, stitches) or (b) are destroyed or destructively deformed to fasten or unfasten (e.g. staples, rivets) are excluded from A44B. These fasteners per se

However, when F16B types of fasteners or other tool driven or deformed fasteners are used to mount fasteners or fastener components appropriate for A44B, and are attached to or cooperate with at least one of their components, they are properly classified within A44B as an additional feature of the fasteners with which they are utilized.

Fasteners appropriately classified within A44B are often broadly claimed or disclosed in combination with the structure they secure or fasten. If the detail of the structure they secure or fasten specifies only the portion of the structure (e.g. dress belt tip or holes) necessary for either completing the fastening operation or mounting the fastening means, the combinations are proper for A44B.

If the details of the accoutrements, garments, or haberdashery being secured are more than that needed to complete the fastening operation or mount the fastener, then the combination is appropriate for the accoutrements, garments, or haberdashery subclasses (e.g. A41DA41F).

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

Decorative mock-fastening devices that do not function as fasteners (e.g. ornamental buttons on coats, fake zippers on clothing), but that look like the fasteners or one of their essential parts covered by A44B, are classified within the main groups of this subclass that provide for the fasteners they are intended to resemble.

Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the words slide fastener and zipper are often used as synonyms.

In patent documents the words cufflink and sleeve-link are often used as synonyms.

A44B 1/00 - Definition

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

A44B 9/06 - Definition

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

A45B - Definition

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

A45D - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Processes of waving, straightening or curling hair;

Hair-curling or hair-waving appliances, e.g. curling-tongs;

Devices for heating or accessories for hair curling appliances;

Hair holding devices;

Devices for washing or colouring the hair or scalp;

Hair drying devices or accessories therefor;

Devices for removing superfluous hair, e.g. tweezers;

Hair combs or accessories therefor;

Shaving accessories;

Manicuring or pedicuring implements;

Artificial nails;

Containers, casings or accessories for handling toilet or cosmetic substances;

Sachet pads for liquid substances;

Hand, pocket, or shaving mirrors;

Hairdressers’ equipment, e.g. protecting mantles, stands for performing hairdressing work, specially adapted furniture;

Other toilet or cosmetic equipment.

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A45D 2/06 - Definition

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A47B - Definition

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A47J - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Devices for domestic (or restaurant) use for preparing, cooking, or warming food or for making beverages. Storing and handling arrangements for these devices. Devices for storing food.

Preparing, cooking, or warming food refers to the various possible stages when preparing a meal:

• food is prepared before cooking / consumption: e.g. peeled, cut, shaped, strained, mashed, sifted, washed, opening of eggs, separating contents of eggs, nut cracking, introducing fat etc. into meat
• food is cooked: e.g. boiled, fried, deep fat fried, broiled, braised, grilled, roasted, toasted, baked, steamed (i.e. a raw potato becomes a cooked one)
• food is prepared after cooking: e.g. mashed, held or clamped during cutting after being cooked
• food is warmed: cold prepared or cooked food is warmed for consumption (i.e. a cold cooked potato becomes a warmcooked potato)

Devices for preparing, cooking, or warming food therefore include:

Domestic implements or machines for preparing food, e.g.

• for shaping butter or the like,
• for peeling, stringing, or paring foodstuffs,
• for mashing or straining foodstuffs,
• for coring, for stoning, or for removing stalks from, fruit,
• kitchen robots, devices for mixing, beating, stirring, grating, whipping food
• for holding, gripping or clamping food, e.g. during peeling or during cutting after being cooked
• Cutting boards
• Coffee mills, spice mills

Domestic cooking implements, e.g.

• Cooking vessels or accessories therefor
• Household vessels or apparatuses for boiling, frying, deep fat frying, broiling, stewing, grilling, roasting, toasting, baking, steaming, e.g. pressure cookers, steamers, rice cookers, deep fat fryers
• Egg cookers
• Camp cooking devices without integral heating means

Devices for warming drinks or food

Warming vessels containing drinks or food

Heat insulated chambers to warm or to keep food warm

Devices for gripping, lifting or supporting above devices (pincers, pads)

Culinary hand implements for handling or supporting food during preparing/cooking/warming

Making beverages refers to:

• extracting flavor from solids by a liquid: e.g. extracting flavor from coffee grounds or tea leaves by brewing with hot water
• diluting concentrate powders or liquids by diluents: e.g. diluting coffee concentrate with hot water
• changing the consistency of a beverage: shaking a beverage, foaming milk

Devices for making beverages therefore include:

• Household apparatuses for making beverages, e.g. by brewing or diluting
• Beverage shakers, devices for foaming milk

Storing and handling of devices for preparing, cooking, or warming food or for making beverages refer to:

• fastening these devices in order to immobilise them for use , irremovably fixing them
• arranging these devices when temporally not in use or for warming them

Storing and handling arrangements therefore include:

• Devices for fastening kitchen utensils to tables, walls, or the like
• Stands, or holders for kitchen articles
• Grids, racks, or other supports irremovably mounted in, on, or over sinks
• Devices for warming kitchen utensils, e.g. dishes

Storing food refers to:

• storing food or ingredients to be prepared/cooked/warmed or ingredients for making beverages, e.g. storage containers for flour, sugar, coffee beans, ground coffee, tea leaves or rice, storage boxes for leftovers
• storing prepared/cooked/warmed food or beverages, e.g. thermally insulated vessels or flasks

Devices for storing food therefore include:

• Kitchen containers
• Thermally insulated vessels, e.g. flasks, jugs or jars

Relationship between large subject matter areas

This subclass is primarily intended for domestic kitchen equipment for preparing/cooking/warming food. Preparing/cooking/warming foodstuff on an industrial scale is not covered by this subclasses and will be classified in the following places:

• subclass A01J for machines or implements for shaping butter or the like used in dairies, e.g. for forming slabs of butter
• subclass A21B for bakers’ ovens, machines or equipment for industrial baking
• subclass A23J for industrial machines for opening eggs
• subclass A23N for machines for preparing foodstuffs or fruit in bulk, e.g. peeling vegetables or fruit in bulk

Implements for table use will be classified in A47G.

Subclass A47J further covers the domestic making of (hot) beverages, in particular the preparing of tea or coffee by extraction with hot water. Other apparatuses and methods for preparing beverages mostly on industrial scale are classified in the following subclasses:

• subclass A23F for the industrial making of coffee or tea
• subclass C12C for brewing of beer
• subclass C12G for preparation of wine or other alcoholic beverages
• subclass B67D for dispensing beverages, e.g. on draught
• subclass A23L for preparation of non-alcoholic beverages, e.g. by adding ingredients to fruit or vegetable juices

In relation to the subclasses that cover domestic stoves or ranges for solid or liquid fuel in general, this subclass is an application place. Features of stoves or ranges which are of general interest should be classified in the relevant general place, such as F24BF24C.

Storing arrangements in A47J does not cover cabinets or racks in general even with provision for attachment of kitchen implements. This subject matter is classified with the subclass for cabinets or general details of furniture A47B. Devices for fastening household utensils are classified in A47G (e.g. for storing brooms). Storage containers (both thermally insulated as without thermal insulation) in general are classified in B65D.

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A47J 27/05 - Definition

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A47L - Definition

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A61B - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Apparatus, instruments, implements, or processes that are either specially adapted or intended to be solely utilized for evaluating, examining, measuring, monitoring, studying, or testing particular characteristics and aspects of either living or dead human and animal bodies for medical purposes (i.e., diagnosis). Diagnosis consists of scrutinizing the following characteristics or aspects of bodies:

• internal or external portions of the bodies (e.g., lungs),
• abnormal bodily conditions (e.g., sickness, broken bones, detecting foreign bodies, pregnancy),
• mental conditions (e.g., psychotechnics), and
• bodily functions (e.g., heart beat, vision).

Apparatus, instruments, implements, or processes that are either specially adapted or intended to be solely utilized for medical procedures employing physical actions (e.g., laser cutting, pressure of fluid) on portions of human or animal bodies to correct, enhance, or inspect (e.g., autopsies) them for medical purposes (i.e., surgery). Surgery consists of the following medical procedures:

• repositioning (e.g. aligning broken bones, opening wounds) parts of bodies,
• stabilizing (e.g., inserting bone pins) to prevent harmful movement of parts of bodies,
• repairing (e.g., fastening skin together, removing cancerous tissue) bodies,
• facilitating the occurrence of naturally occurring bodily functions (e.g., child birth, passing kidney stones) that are out of the ordinary,
• introducing, collecting, or removing cells and organs (e.g., inseminations, tissue sampling, hair transplants, skin grafting, biopsies, organ harvesting) to or from bodies, and
• introducing or taking out foreign objects (e.g., replacement heart valves, bullets) to or from bodies.

Apparatus, instruments, implements, or processes that are either specially adapted or intended to be solely utilized in procedures for identifying individual human beings (e.g., finger printing, by recognition of shape or dimension of body part) using unique characteristics of their bodies (i.e. identification).

Adjunct or supplementary means specially adapted for use in, or intended for exclusive use in, diagnosis, surgery, or identification. These adjunct or supplementary means contribute to the effectiveness (e.g., surgical drapes) or safety (e.g., operating gloves) of a medical procedure, but may or may not (e.g., protective covers for scalpels) themselves involve any direct contact with a body.

Components of diagnosis, surgery, or identification means with structural features limiting their usefulness to medical procedures.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

Several subclasses provide for subject matter that is used for 'diagnosis'. The relationship between these subclasses with regard to the type of 'diagnosis' covered by each is as follows:

Subclass A61B provides for diagnosis in general.

A61B also provides for any surgical or identification apparatus or methods when

• the apparatus or methods are combined with diagnosis means or
• the apparatus can be used for diagnosis and either surgery or identification.

A61B additionally provides for any diagnostic apparatus or methods combined with therapy apparatus or method normally covered by subclass A61H or A61N when

• the same apparatus or methods are used for both purposes or
• combined together but only useable separately.

Subclass A61H provides for diagnostic means or steps that are combined with massage and physical therapy apparatus or methods used for the treatment of disease or disability (i.e., an abnormal condition of the body) by utilization of direct mechanical energy; when the diagnostic means or step is used solely for operational feedback purposes to enhance therapy.

Subclass A61N provides for diagnostic means or steps that are combined with medical treatment therapy apparatus or methods used for the treatment of disease or disability by utilization of forms of energy other than direct mechanical energy; when the means or step is used solely for operational feedback purposes to enhance therapy.

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A61C - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Apparatus (i.e. instruments, implements, machines, structures, tools) or processes that are specially adapted for, or limited to use in, creating artificial teeth, mounting artificial teeth, supporting artificial teeth, or repairing artificial teeth or their supports (e.g. denture articulators), and wherein the dental prostheses made or fixed by the apparatus or process are used exclusively for humans or both humans and animals.

Apparatus or methods utilized to prevent, discourage, or cure oral diseases (i.e. diseases occurring exclusively within the oral cavity such as enamel caries or periodontitis) in humans or both humans and animals.

Apparatus, devices, or methods used for one or more of the following:

• correcting abnormalities or injuries that prevent the proper or desired bringing together of the cooperating surfaces of natural teeth, or their artificial replacements that are permanently affixed within the mouth, located on opposite jaws;
• preserving or rectify the appropriate or desired relative positioning, separation gaps, or alignment of natural teeth; or
• preventing or repairing damage to natural teeth or their appropriate or desired relative positioning, separation gaps, or alignment (e.g. devices that surround or cover teeth to prevent grinding).

Apparatus (i.e. instruments, implements, machines, structures, tools) or processes that are specially adapted for, or limited to use in, the treatment, reconstruction, removal, insertion, replacement, repair, transfixing or testing of either natural teeth, artificial teeth that are permanently affixed within the oral cavity, gums, or other portions of the oral cavity having an effect on their operation (e.g. portions of jawbone supporting teeth), and wherein the apparatus or processes are used exclusively for humans or both humans and animals.

Apparatus, devices, or methods used for

• sanitizing the oral cavity or dental prostheses (e.g. gargling devices, washing means);
• removing foreign matter (e.g. food) or undesirable naturally occurring matter (e.g. plaque, calculus) from the surfaces of teeth, gums, or dental prostheses; or
• stimulating gums.

Dental prostheses devices or artificial dental implant devices per se or their components (e.g. artificial teeth, mounting or attaching means for artificial teeth, devices for supplementing jawbones, crowns) used within the oral cavity.

Dental implants formed from biological material or consisting of oral cavity parts originating either from a donor source or from the patient that are intended to be introduced, or reintroduced, into the patient’s oral cavity to correct a dental or oral hygiene problem (e.g. modified natural teeth or jawbone material from a donor).

Adjunct, auxiliary, or supplementary means or structures that contribute to the effectiveness or safety of dental procedures or their products and are specially adapted to be used either:

• during dentistry procedures (e.g. saliva removers, medication suppliers, drainage treatment);
• with the products of dental procedures (e.g. artificial teeth supports); or
• during the making of dental prostheses (e.g. stands for impression trays).

Specially adapted components of apparatus having structural features limiting them to use with at least one of the dental apparatus types specified above (e.g. dust collectors, illumination devices).

Accessories specially adapted for use with at least one of the above types of apparatus, means, or structures (e.g. devices for measuring the length of the root canal of a tooth).

Relationship between large subject matter areas

Subclass A61C(this subclass) provides for devices used by others to clean an individual’s teeth. It also provides for devices used by individuals upon their own teeth to remove foreign matter from the surface of their teeth or enhance the appearance of their teeth when the device is not specifically provided for elsewhere.

Subclass A46Bcovers manually moved or powered brushes, and in particular toothbrushes, used for cleaning that are not specifically provided for elsewhere. It also covers arrangements of brush bristles per se and the handle structure for brushes.

Subclass A61Dcovers devices used by individuals to remove foreign matter from the surface of the teeth of animals or enhance the appearance of the teeth of animals when the device is not specifically provided for elsewhere and is limited to use solely on animals.

Subclass A61Kcovers preparations that are used for medical, dental, or cosmetic purposes in the oral cavity.

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A61C 1/18 - Definition

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A61D - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Apparatus (i.e. instruments, implements, machines, structures, tools) or processes for enhancing or controlling the breeding of companion, domesticated, exotic, or wild animals (e.g. artificial vaginas, uterus disinfecting means), wherein the apparatus or processes are specially adapted to be only usable with animals.

Apparatus (i.e. instruments, implements, machines, structures, tools) or processes limited to use in the treatment, reconstruction, removal or replacement of the teeth, gums, or other parts within the mouth of companion, domesticated, exotic, or wild animals for medical purposes (i.e. dentistry), wherein the apparatus or processes are specially adapted to be only usable with animals and for dental procedures.

Apparatus (i.e. instruments, implements, machines, structures, tools) or processes for introducing medication (e.g. vaccines) or other material having an effect on bodily functions (e.g. seminal fluids, euthanasia poisons, stimulants) into or onto the bodies of companion, domesticated, exotic, or wild animals, wherein the apparatus or processes are specially adapted to be only usable with animals and for medical purposes.

Apparatus (i.e. instruments, implements, machines, structures, tools) or processes for medical procedures that employ physical actions on portions of companion, domesticated, exotic, or wild animal bodies to correct, enhance, inspect, or treat them (i.e. surgery), wherein the apparatus or processes are specially adapted to be only usable with animals and for medical procedures. Animal surgery consists of the following medical procedures:

• repositioning (e.g. aligning broken bones, opening wounds) or removing (e.g. cropping tails) parts of animal bodies;
• stabilizing (e.g. inserting bone pins) to prevent harmful movement of parts of animal bodies;
• repairing (e.g. cauterizing beaks) animal bodies;
• facilitating the occurrence of naturally occurring bodily functions (e.g. degassing stomachs, death) that are out of the ordinary;
• introducing, collecting, or removing cells or organs to or from animal bodies; and
• introducing or taking out foreign objects (e.g. bullets) to or from animal bodies.

Apparatus (i.e. instruments, implements, machines, structures, tools) or processes for evaluating, examining, measuring, monitoring, studying, or testing particular characteristics and aspects of the bodies of companion, domesticated, exotic, or wild animals (i.e. diagnosis), wherein the apparatus or processes are specially adapted to be only usable with animals and for medical purposes. Animal diagnosis consists of scrutinizing the following characteristics or aspects of animal bodies:

• internal (e.g. lungs) or external (e.g. hooves) portions of the bodies,
• abnormal bodily conditions (e.g. detecting foreign bodies),
• inappropriate mental conditions (e.g. neurobiological-based compulsions or unacceptable psychological behavior), and
• bodily functions (e.g. vision).

Implements, devices, or materials that are:

• designed to be placed on or cover sores (e.g. blisters, boils) or wounds (e.g. cuts, abrasions) for extended periods of time (i.e. at least several minutes, but frequently for days) during their healing process to absorb fluids from, protect, or medicate them (e.g. poultices) and
• specially adapted to be only usable with companion, domesticated, exotic, or wild animals.

Adjunct, auxiliary, or supplementary structures or means (e.g. operating tables, clean rooms) that are specially adapted to be only usable with companion, domesticated, exotic, or wild animals during their diagnosis, dentistry, surgery, or for other medical purposes. These adjunct, auxiliary, or supplementary structures or means contribute to the effectiveness (e.g. washing devices) or safety (e.g. handling gloves, mouth openers) of medical procedures, but may or may not themselves involve direct contact with the animal's body (e.g. thermometer holder).

Specially adapted components of apparatus having structural features limiting them to use with diagnostic, dental, or surgical apparatus for animals.

Accessories specially adapted for use with the above types of apparatus, means, or structures.

All other types of apparatus (i.e. instruments, implements, machines, structures, tools) or processes that are not specifically provided for in another subclass which are

• utilized for medical treatment of companion, domesticated, exotic, or wild animals,
• typically used only in an animal hospital-like facility or by animal medical personnel, and
• only useable with animals.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

Embodiments of apparatus, instruments, implements, structures, tools, or processes that are used on both humans and animals (i.e. have a more general utility) for maintaining their health or for other medical purposes are classified in another subclass based on their human usage and not in subclass A61D.

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A61F - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Apparatus, devices or methods for physically correcting or altering the body of patients or disabled persons that are directly and for prolonged periods of time (i.e. not just during acute exceptional circumstances) used on or in the body of the patient or the disabled person:

• Stents and similar devices providing patency to, or preventing collapsing of, tubular structures of the body;
• Prostheses, i.e. artificial substitutes or replacements for parts of the body that are either implantable into the body (e.g. blood vessels, eye parts, heart valves, bones, joints) or not implantable in the body (e.g. mammary prostheses, artificial arms, hands, legs or feet or parts thereof);
• Specially adapted electrical, bioelectrical or fluid operating or control means for prostheses or sphincters;
• Specially adapted means for connecting prostheses with or to the body (e.g. bandages, harnesses, sockets, stockings for the limb stump);
• Specially adapted means for protecting prostheses;
• Filters implantable into blood vessels;
• Lengthening pieces for natural legs;
• Orthopaedic methods or devices for non-surgical treatment of bones or joints, e.g. splints, casts, corsets, devices for stretching including equipment for beds or treatment tables, medical insertions for shoes, pressure pads, suspensory bandages;
• Methods or devices for physically treating or correcting of the eyes (e.g. eye surgery using laser);
• Apparatus specially adapted for guiding the blind by supplementing or replacing their visual perception;
• Methods or devices for treatment of the ears, e.g. surgical.

Methods or devices (e.g. head or eye-gaze-direction actuated control devices, oral communication actuated control devices) for enabling patients or disabled persons to operate independent apparatus or machines (i.e. apparatus such as room lights or doors that is not a part of, or used in conjunction with the functioning of, artificial or natural parts of their body) without the application of direct force from the part of the human body that would normally be used by individuals for controlling operation of the independent apparatus or machine such as a hand, foot or their artificial equivalents.

Contraceptive devices for males (e.g. condoms, vas deferens occluders) or females (e.g. pessaries, intra-uterine type, fallopian occluders).

Devices for medical or hygienic care of living individuals that are worn by the individual or directly contact the body of the individual during their care:

• Devices worn by the patient for reception of urine, faeces; colostomy devices;
• Bandages or dressings, e.g. plasters, elastic stockings;
• Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, absorbent garments, e.g. diapers, tampons, e.g. catamenial tampons, surgical swabs; supporting and fastening means for pads.

Heating or cooling devices for medical or therapeutic treatment of the human body and for body cavities, e.g. compresses, warming pads, pans or mats, hot water bottles, ice bags.

Protective devices for the eyes, e.g. goggles, eye-masks worn to prevent particulates or chemicals from striking the eyes.

Devices for inserting contact lenses.

Protective devices for the ears, e.g. ear plugs or earmuffs.

Auxiliary appliances for wound dressings; dispensing containers for dressings or bandages; packages or wrapping arrangements for used pads, e.g. for disposal.

Containers having various emergency medical supplies such as bandages, simple medical tools, and medicines (i.e. first-aid kits) that are intended to be used for administering initial treatment to injured or sick individuals.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

If an apparatus, method, device, or material is usable for both humans and animals for the same purpose and in the same manner, and it is otherwise proper for this subclass, classification is made only in subclass A61F. Similar devices or processes to those covered by subclass A61F that are usable exclusively for animals or are used in animals in a different manner or for different purposes than for humans, are classified in subclass A61D.

Surgical apparatus or processes in general are covered by subclass A61B.

Subclass A61H provides for massage, chiropractic, or physical therapy apparatus or processes used for the treatment of disease, injuries or disability (i.e. an abnormal condition of the body) by utilization of direct mechanical energy.

Chemical and materialaspects of prostheses, structures inserted into tubular structures of human bodies, bandages, dressings, absorbent pads or surgical articles are covered by subclass A61L.

With regard to human organs and their parts, the exact distinction between the artificial devices implantable into human bodies that are proper for subclass A61F and those proper for subclass A61M is somewhat imprecise. Therefore, for analogous situations that are not specifically covered by existing groups of these subclasses, the following listings are intended to provide guidance.

Subclass A61F provides for the following replacements or substitutes for internal body organs or their parts: hollow or tubular parts of organs (e.g. bladders, tracheae, bronchi, heart valves and blood vessels, bile ducts), structural supporting or maintaining devices for such parts (e.g. stents), artificial eyes and artificial ears.

Subclass A61M provides for the following replacements or substitutes for internal body organs or their parts: artificial hearts (based on catchword index), artificial livers, artificial lungs, artificial pancreas, artificial kidneys and catheters in general.

Devices for introducing media into or onto the body, devices for taking media from the body are also covered by subclass A61M.

Spectacles, sunglasses, contact lenses or goggles insofar as they have the features of vision correction or protection against high levels of visible and ultraviolet light are covered by subclass G02C.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

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Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the expression "device for fluid management" is often used with the meaning of incontinence article.

A61F 5/02 - Definition

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A61F 5/34 - Definition

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A61F 5/458 - Definition

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A61F 7/00 - Definition

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A61F 9/00 - Definition

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A61G - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Specially adapted vehicles (e.g., ambulances), handling apparatus (e.g., wheelchair lifts), or methods or devices (e.g., stretchers) for moving patients or disabled persons who are passive participants in their relocation (e.g., the persons are handled in a manner similar to loads).

Personal conveyances

Specially adapted structures (e.g., hospital or treatment rooms for medical purposes, baby incubators) or devices (e.g., bedpans, hospital beds, trapeze or pull-up bars) used

• by patients or disabled persons for their personal physical needs and convenience or
• for controlling the local environment of patients or disabled persons during treatment or recovery.

Specially adapted supporting surfaces for sustaining patients in a recumbent or seated position during recovery, surgery, dental work, or similar types of medical treatment.

Funeral devices

Auxiliary appliances (e.g., trolleys for medicine) or accessories (e.g., prescription list) specially adapted for use with the other invention information covered by this subclass.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

A61G does not cover apparatus or methods that are directly used on an individual's body to perform medical care and therapy or to alter it after death. The types of medical care, therapy, and body alterations not covered by A61G consist of:

• treating a part of the body (e.g., filling teeth - A61C),
• monitoring the body (e.g., eye testing - A61B),
• determining a medical condition or illness of the body (e.g., radiation diagnosis – A61B),
• investigating the body (e.g., autopsy equipment – A61B),
• physically correcting or altering the body of living individuals (e.g., cataract surgery – A61F), and
• physically preparing or altering the body of deceased individuals (e.g., embalming equipment - A01N, cremation furnaces – F23G).

Subclasses A01NA61B, A61CA61F, A61HA61K, A61MA61N, and F23G provide appropriately for apparatus or methods for medical care, therapy, or body alterations of these types. The specific classifications that are of interest for search purposes are specified in the references of A61G or its groups.

However, A61G does provide for specific structural modifications that merely facilitate the use of apparatus or methods of these types for medical care or therapy when in combination with subject matter that is otherwise appropriate for this subclass (e.g., special supports for patients with burns).

A61G also provides for life supporting or sustaining devices that control the local environment during treatment or recovery of patients (e.g., baby incubators).

A61G covers personal conveyances and "vehicle-like" conveyances (e.g., wheelchairs, stretchers) that are explicitly designed for use by only a single patient or disabled person and intended to normally travel relatively short distances along the ground or similar support surface (e.g., hallway).

The subclass for a specific type of standard roadway vehicle (i.e., vehicles designed and intended for general thoroughfare usage over long distances, such as B62K for cycles) covers their vehicles that have been specially adapted for use by a disabled operator.

The subclass for a specific type of "special-utility" vehicle (i.e., vehicles that have another primary purpose other than transport, such as riding lawn mowers or forklifts) covers their vehicles that have been specially adapted for use by a disabled operator.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

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Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A61G 1/003 - Definition

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A61G 1/007 - Definition

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A61G 1/01 - Definition

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A61G 5/00 - Definition

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A61G 7/16 - Definition

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A61G 10/02 - Definition

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A61G 12/00 - Definition

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A61G 13/00 - Definition

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A61G 15/00 - Definition

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A61G 17/08 - Definition

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A61H - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Apparatus or processes which are not used for surgical purposes utilizing mechanical energy transmitted by direct physical contact with the external surface of the thorax portion of human bodies to induce or supplement normal breathing (e.g. iron lungs).

Apparatus or processes, which are not used for surgical purposes that are specially adapted to improve or promote the optical functioning of individuals (e.g. rectify defective vision, improve the natural operation of their eyes) by:

• contacting eyes or their muscles directly to move the eyes,
• subjecting the eyes of individuals to controlled muscle strain,
• utilizing stimulators, such as flash illumination, to cause movement of eyes of individuals in a controlled manner, or
• facilitating or training individuals though practice to move their own eyes in a beneficial manner.

Apparatus or devices that are explicitly designed for use by a single patient or disabled person for the purpose of helping them overcome a physical condition that impairs their ability to walk unassisted across the ground or similar support surface (e.g. crutches).

Apparatus or processes utilizing mechanical energy directly applied upon human bodies for therapy (e.g. massage). These therapy apparatus and processes are intended to facilitate the healing of diseases, promote or assist normal operation of a malfunctioning body part, reduce the impact of injuries, or beneficially influence the condition of disabled body parts either by the physical movement of body parts (e.g. devices for exercising a passive body member) or other types of physical stimulation (e.g. touching) transmitted though contact with:

• external body surfaces or
• surfaces of naturally occurring body cavities.

Apparatus or processes which are not used for surgical purposes utilizing mechanical energy directly applied to human bodies by physical contact therewith (e.g. chiropractic) to treat, alleviate the effects of, or prevent disease or bodily malfunctions (e.g. misalignments of bone, aberrant joint) solely by manipulation, adjustment, or realignment of at least a portion of the skeletal system of the body (e.g. bone joints, tendons, spinal columns) by either:

• impacting external surfaces of bodies to manipulate or adjust portions of their skeletons containing unbroken bones or
• pulling or pushing on the external surfaces of bodies to extend or compress portions of their skeletons containing unbroken bones.

Apparatus or processes which are not used for surgical purposes utilizing mechanical energy directly applied upon human bodies by physical contact (e.g. massage) to rub, stroke, knead, tap, vibrate, or otherwise move a portion of the external surface of human bodies, or the surfaces of their naturally occurring body cavities, to either:

• physically relax individuals,
• physically arouse or stimulate individuals, or
• counteract or relieve bodily pains.

Apparatus or processes which are not used for surgical purposes (e.g. baths) that are specially adapted for covering, soaking, or immersing human bodies, or portions of bodies, within fluids (e.g. steam, water) or fluent materials (e.g. sand, mud) in a manner that is distinct from the common bathing process for cleaning human bodies and is intended to either:

• counteract or relieve bodily pains,
• physically relax individuals,
• promote or assist healing of injured bodies or their parts, or
• restore to health, or alleviate the effects of sicknesses or other types of abnormal conditions on, bodies or their parts.

Apparatus or processes (e.g. breast baths) specially adapted for covering, soaking, or immersing only one particular part of the human body within fluids (e.g. steam, water) or fluent materials (e.g. sand, seaweed) .

Articles of clothing (e.g. sweating suits for therapy) that at least partially enclose human bodies for the primary purpose of increasing the local temperature (e.g. insulated, include heating elements) or humidity (e.g. constructed of partially air tight material) of the portion of the human bodies covered to a point where the localized temperature or humidity is beyond the range that human beings normally consider physically comfortable (i.e. creates localized sauna-like environment) for therapy.

Specially adapted components for the above types of apparatus.

Auxiliary appliances or accessories specially adapted for use with any of the above types of apparatus or process (e.g. reflex point locators).

Other types of apparatus or processes which are not used for surgical (e.g. acupuncture devices) purposes that utilize mechanical energy directly applied to human bodies by physical contact for improving their functioning that are not specifically provided for elsewhere in another subclass.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

If an apparatus or process is usable for both humans and animals for the same purpose and in the same manner, and it is otherwise proper for this subclass, classification is made only in subclass A61H. Similar devices or processes to those covered by subclass A61H that are usable exclusively for animals, or are used in animals in a different manner or for different purposes than for humans, are classified in subclass A61D.

Subclass A61H covers apparatus or processes that are specially adapted to physically relax or stimulate individuals due either to

• mechanical energy being directly applied upon human body parts to cause their physical movement, or stimulation, by direct physical contact with external surfaces of the body or surfaces of naturally occurring cavities in the body (i.e. massage) or
• the calming or invigorating effects of bathing.

Subclass A61M covers devices or processes which are specially adapted to cause or precipitate a change in the state of consciousness of humans (e.g. induce sleep, awaken), or to increase or decrease the mental activity of humans while awake, which may also involve relaxing or stimulating individuals.

Several subclasses provide for apparatus or processes that are used for treating humans for medical conditions. The relationship between these subclasses is as follows:

Subclass A61B provides for surgical apparatus or processes in general.

Subclass A61B also provides for surgical apparatus or processes when

• surgical apparatus or processes are combined with means used for other types of treatment (e.g. therapy, massage) for medical conditions or
• the apparatus can be used both for surgery and for other types of treatment for medical conditions.

Subclass A61H provides for massage, chiropractic, or physical therapy apparatus or processes used for the treatment of disease, injuries, or disability (i.e. an abnormal condition of the body) by utilization of direct mechanical energy.

Subclass A61N provides for apparatus or processes used for the treatment of disease, injuries, or disability by utilization of forms of energy other than direct mechanical energy.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

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Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

A61H 1/00 - Definition

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A61H 3/00 - Definition

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A61H 3/06 - Definition

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A61H 7/00 - Definition

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A61H 33/08 - Definition

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A61H 33/14 - Definition

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A61H 39/00 - Definition

References relevant to classification in this main group

This main group does not cover:

A61H 39/04 - Definition

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A61H 39/06 - Definition

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A61J - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Apparatus, devices, or methods specially adapted for changing or fashioning bulk medicines, or their essential constituents, into pharmaceutical products having specific physical forms designed to either:

• facilitate their accurate dispensing to, or proper usage by, humans (e.g., tablets of specified dosage),
• enhance their desirability so as to improve their likelihood of being consumed or used (e.g., candy coated tablets, impregnated food, lubricated suppositories),
• improve their ability to, or make them physically able to, be consumed or used (e.g., encapsulated fish oil, ointments), or
• increase their effectiveness.

Apparatus, devices, or methods specially adapted for administering medications or pharmaceutical products to humans though their oral cavity.

Receptacles that are not designed to be ingestible and are specially adapted for holding or containing medicines or pharmaceutical products prior to their usage or consumption by humans.

Receptacles specially adapted to hold, contain, or transport pharmaceutical, surgical, or therapy related materials other than medicines or pharmaceutical products (e.g., containers for storing blood).

Hollow flexible conduits specially adapted, or solely intended, for the purpose of providing nutriments in fluid or fluent forms to humans by insertion of the conduits into an orifice of their bodies (e.g., enteral feeding using functioning gastrointestinal tract).

Containers specially adapted for holding water or nutriments in fluid or fluent forms (e.g., feeding bottles) that is withdrawn by the sucking of infants, young children, or other humans (e.g., patients, disabled persons) on orally engaged portions or subcomponents of the containers.

The orally engaged subcomponents per se of the containers of the preceding paragraph (e.g., compressible rubber teats for feeding bottles) which are specially adapted for infants, young children, or other humans to suck upon to withdraw water or nutriments in fluid or fluent forms from the containers.

Other types of apparatus or devices specially adapted for orally administering only nutriments in fluid or fluent forms to infants, patients or disabled persons.

Devices that are not designed to be ingestible and are specially adapted, or solely intended, for either:

• soothing, calming, or relaxing infants or young children by relieving a physical craving (e.g., oral pacifier) or
• allowing infants or young children to relieve minor irritations or inflammations themselves though usage of the devices (e.g., teething devices for gum irritation).

Devices or receptacle specially adapted, or solely intended, for receiving spittle, phlegm, or other forms of naturally occurring oral discharge from humans.

Devices specially adapted to prevent irritation of the teat portion of the mammary gland of humans from abrasive or rubbing contact.

Specially adapted subcomponents or steps for the above types of apparatus, containers, devices or methods of the preceding paragraphs that are not provided for in another subclass.

Auxiliary appliances or accessories specially adapted for use with the apparatus, containers, or devices of the preceding paragraphs to facilitate either:

• the proper dispensation or usage of medications or pharmaceutical products (e.g., medication reminders, pill counters) or
• the taking of food orally by humans.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

If an apparatus, device, or method is usable for both humans and animals for the same purpose and in the same manner, and it is otherwise proper for this subclass, classification is made only in subclass A61J

Similar apparatus, devices, or methods to those covered by subclass A61Jthat are usable exclusively for animals, or are used in animals in a different manner or for different purposes than for humans, are classified in subclass A61D

Devices that may be interesting to a baby (e.g., they have a specific shape such as an animal that the baby may manipulate) and are intended to serve to relieve a physical craving, irritation, or inflammation of the baby are covered by subclass A61J

Devices that are primarily intended to be played with by a baby to entertain it, but might also incidentally emotionally calm it (e.g., stuffed bear at bedtime), are covered by subclass A63H

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Glossary of terms

In this subclass, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents the following expressions/words "teat" and "nipple" are often used as synonyms for the orally engaged portion of feeding bottles.

In patent documents the following expressions/words "feeding bottle", "nursing bottle", and "baby bottle" are often used as synonyms.

In patent documents the following expressions/words "spittoon", and "cuspidor" are often used as synonyms.

A61J 1/00 - Definition

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A61J 3/02 - Definition

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A61J 7/00 - Definition

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A61J 9/00 - Definition

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A61J 13/00 - Definition

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A61J 15/00 - Definition

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A61K - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Compositions which are:

Used as preparations for dentistry, e.g. for artificial teeth, for filling or for capping teeth, or for taking dental impressions.

Used for cosmetic purposes for treating the skin, hair, nails, teeth or oral cavity with a view to cleaning them, changing their appearance, correcting body odours, protecting them or keeping them in good condition.

Used for medicinal purposes, e.g. drugs, biological compositions, when they are capable of:

• preventing, alleviating, treating or curing abnormal or pathological conditions of the living body by such means as destroying a parasitic organism, or limiting the effect of the disease or abnormality by chemically altering the physiology of the host or parasite;
• maintaining, increasing, decreasing, limiting, or destroying a physiological body function, e.g. vitamin compositions, sex sterilants, fertility inhibitors, growth promotors, or the like;
• diagnosing a physiological condition or state by an in vivo test, e.g. X-ray contrast or skin patch test compositions.

Processes

• of preparing these compositions, and
• of using these compositions or single compounds for medical, dental, or toilet purposes.

Relationship between large subject matter areas

A01N covers the preservation of bodies of humans or animals or plants or parts thereof; biocides, e.g. as disinfectants, as pesticides, as herbicides .

Compounds per se are classified in C01C07 or C08.

C08K covers the use of substances as compounding ingredients.

Compositions per se containing polymers are classified in C08L.

Micro-organisms per se are classified in C12N.

Multiple classification

The therapeutic activity of medicinal preparations is further classified in A61P.

The use of cosmetics or similar toilet preparations is further classified in A61Q.

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

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Special rules of classification

Attention is drawn to the definitions of groups of chemical elements following the title of section C.

In this subclass, with the exception of group 8/00, in the absence of an indication to the contrary, classification is made in the last appropriate place.

Attention is drawn to the Notes in class C07, for example the Notes following the title of the subclass C07D, setting forth the rules for classifying organic compounds in that class, which rules are also applicable, if not otherwise indicated, to the classification of organic compounds of A61K.

A composition, i.e. a mixture of two or more ingredients is classified in the last of groups A61K 31/00-A61K 47/00 that provides for at least one of these ingredients.

Any part of a composition which is not identified by classification according to the last appropriate place of an active ingredient, and which itself is determined to be novel and non-obvious, must also be classified. The part can be either a single ingredient or a composition in itself.

Any part of a composition which is not identified by the classification according the last appropriate place, and which is considered to represent information of interest for search, may also be classified. This can for example be the case when it is considered of interest to enable searching of compositions using a combination of classification symbols. Such non-obligatory classification should be given as "additional information".

A61K 6/00 - Definition

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A61K 6/04 - Definition

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A61K 6/06 - Definition

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A61K 6/08 - Definition

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A61K 6/10 - Definition

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A61K 8/00 - Definition

Relationship between large subject matter areas

Casings or accessories for storing or handling of solid or pasty toilet or cosmetic substances are classified in A45D 40/00

A61K 9/00 - Definition

Relationship between large subject matter areas

Nuclear magnetic resonance contrast preparations or magnetic resonance imaging contrast preparations are classified in group A61K 49/18

Praparations containing radioactive substances are classified in group A61K 51/12

A61K 9/68 - Definition

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A61K 9/70 - Definition

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A61K 50/00 - Definition

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A61L - Definition

Definition statement

This subclass covers:

Apparatus or methods specifically adapted for use in treating air either:

• by destroying noxious micro-organisms within the air,
• by removing micro-organisms from the air,
• by otherwise rendering air aseptic,
• by removing unwanted odor constituents from air, or
• by covering up unwanted odor constituents, or potential constituents, by adding scent to air.

Apparatus or methods of general applicability for use in destroying noxious micro-organisms on or otherwise rendering completely aseptic articles or materials (e.g., destroying bacteria or fungus).

Apparatus or methods that are not covered as a whole in another subclass and are specially adapted for use in destroying noxious micro-organisms on or otherwise rendering completely aseptic specific articles (e.g., contact lenses) or specific materials (e.g., refuse).

Materials that are specially adapted for devices that are to be affixed to, placed on, placed within, or cover either:

• portions of the surfaces of human bodies having sores (e.g., blisters, boils) or wounds (e.g., cuts, abrasions) for extended periods of time (i.e. at least several minutes, but frequently for days) during their healing process to absorb fluids from, protect, or medicate them (e.g., poultices),
• naturally occurring cavities of or passageways within human bodies to absorb bodily discharges or other fluids from bodies (e.g., urine), protect, or medicate them (e.g. sanitary towels, tampons), or
• incisions or openings in human bodies formed during surgery.

Chemical compounds or compositions that are used in conjunction with, or compose a portion of, the above type of specially adaptive devices or their materials and increase their effectiveness by:

• enhancing their ability to heal or treat sores, wounds, surgical incisions, or surgical openings,
• changing in some manner the absorbability of the devices or materials, or
• otherwise influencing their operation (e.g., prolongs useful life) of the devices or materials.

Materials specially adapted to be used in devices that:

• joining together the edges of wounds, surgical incisions, or surgical openings (e.g., sutures) or
• forming a tissue mass by compressively encircling the mass and holding it (e.g., ligatures).

Adhesives specially adapted for surgical uses.

Materials specially adapted for forming devices used as substitutes for a part of the body that is missing or non-functional or materials specially adapted for coating these devices (e.g., skin grafts).

Materials specially adapted to be used in:

• surgical construction of artificial excretory openings from colons or
• devices that travel up colons to inspect, clean, or treat them.

Materials specially adapted for use within the structure of hollow flexible tubes that are intended to be:

• inserted into human bodies to put in or take out fluids (e.g. cannulae, catheters),
• used to open up or close blood vessels, passageways, or body cavities, or
• passed inside of blood vessels, passageways, or body cavities for diagnostic or treatment purposes (e.g. endoscopes).

Materials specially adapted to be used for other surgical uses or devices (e.g. stents, materials for adhesion prevention).

Materials specially adapted for use as antithrombogenic treatments for at least one of the above type of devices or materials or the chemical compounds or compositions that form, or compose a portion of, these antithrombogenic treatments.

Specially adapted components or steps for at least one of the above types of apparatus, methods, or devices.

Auxiliary appliances or accessories specially adapted for use with at least one of the above types of apparatus or devices (e.g., devices for testing effectiveness of sterilization).

References relevant to classification in this subclass

This subclass does not cover:

Informative references

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