European Patent Office moves to electronic storage of records
The European Patent Office (EPO) has adopted a decision concerning the implementation and use of PHOENIX, an electronic file system designed to create, maintain and process files in electronic form. This will ensure grater efficiency in the storage and inspection of files. From now on users wanting to inspect files will be provided with print-outs of the electronic file, and certified copies of patent applications will also be provided from the electronic records. In addition, PHOENIX workstations will be made available for users to inspect files themselves. However, files which cannot be scanned, and therefore cannot be transferred to electronic format, will still be available for inspection in their original format. The EPO will store electronic records in two different media for the full period required under its rules. In addition, the Office currently has not planned to discontinue storage of original documents submitted, and will preserve these until further notice. It is important to note that the requirement to file European patent applications, international applications and subsequent documents in three copies remains unchanged.