ALFA: New inventions management system
The SPTO, in its constant process of modernization, has introduced a new system for managing the processing of applications for inventions, called ALFA.
The ALFA system allows electronic processing and filing of national patent applications, utility models, supplementary protection certificates, topographies of semiconductor products, PCT international applications, European applications and European patent validation.
The following new features will result from the implementation of ALFA:
- The applicant is provided with a new model of an “Application Request Form” which includes choosing email as the preferred means of communication.
- Improving the communication system of documents cited in the “Report on the State of the Art” and “International Search Report".
The SPTO will send the applicant or agent, by the means of the communication chosen, a password which, along with the file number, will allow access to a file in PDF with all the documents cited in the report.
- The title of Volume II of the BOPI (Official Bulletin of Industrial Property) will be renamed “Inventions” and will be available in several formats: PDF, HTML and XML. The XML format will contain images as well as the published notes.
- There is an increase in the number of official proceedings published in Volume II of the BOPI. The time period for when these proceedings can begin will be counted from the date they are published. Simultaneously, the full text of the procedures will be sent to the applicant or his/her representative by means of the chosen means.
- New codes for identifying application numbers will be used.
- New specific brochures will be developed to account for possible corrections.
- Brochures of modified European patent translations will be divided into amended European patent translation after opposition and after limitation.
- SITADEX will continue to offer consulting services, and in the case of files processed in ALFA will reflect new proceedings that involve the new features previously discussed.
For more information, please press here.
www.oepm.es
