Patent Docket GUI Using USPTO XML and Outgoing Correspondence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current patent case management and docketing systems fail to leverage the full potential of XML data provided by the USPTO, relying heavily on manual data entry and lacking efficient integration of USPTO correspondence, leading to inefficiencies and duplication of effort.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that programmatically downloads and constructs an in-memory docket from USPTO data, providing a graphical user interface for accessing patent properties without manual data entry, enabling automated data processing and display of events, status, and mail information, with features like search and filter functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual data entry and physical correspondence handling are used, then data can be entered into the system, but the process is duplicative and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a digital copy of physical USPTO correspondence and XML data, storing it in an in-memory docket structure. This digital copy replaces the need for manual data entry by directly importing structured data from USPTO XML files, thereby eliminating duplicative work and significantly improving productivity while reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual data entry with an automated electronic data processing system. The system programmatically parses USPTO XML files, extracts relevant information, and populates the docket automatically, substituting human manual operations with computerized processes that are faster and more efficient.
2Measurement precision
If XML data from USPTO is programmatically downloaded and processed, then data accuracy is enhanced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer consisting of structured in-memory docket objects and data models that sit between the raw USPTO XML data and the user interface. This intermediary structure standardizes the data format, ensuring accuracy through consistent data representation while managing complexity by providing a simplified interface to users through the graphical user interface.
3Extent of automation
If an in-memory docket is constructed from downloaded data, then automated management is achieved, but memory resource usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the docket data into hierarchical in-memory objects representing different levels of patent case information (applications, patents, events, deadlines). This segmentation allows the system to load and manage data in manageable chunks rather than holding entire datasets in memory simultaneously, enabling automated management while controlling memory resource usage through structured data organization.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems and software include programmatically downloading over the Internet, at routine intervals of time as well as on demand, from an online computer system of the USPTO, data relating to patent properties that are associated with a customer number; and creating a docket based on the downloaded data, generating and displaying a report generated from the downloaded data, sending an alert (email or text message) that is based on the downloaded data, or any combination thereof. Outgoing correspondence of the USPTO is provided in PDF format for review by a user. Data specific to a particular client also is provided to the client programmatically, with reports, alerts, docketing, or any combination thereof, further being provided for use by the client.