INFORMATION FROM THE EPO
EASY project continues to develop
EASY is software which enables applicants to prepare their patent applications in electronic form. The number of users of the EPO's 0.5 version is growing rapidly. Until now however these applications could only be filed with the EPO direct in Munich, at The Hague and in Berlin (see the articles published in OJ EPO 8/1994 and 8/1995).
A number of contracting states have recently begun to test the system. Therefore it is now possible for EASY applications which meet the test requirements to be filed with those central industrial property offices under Article 75 EPC.
This can at present be done in the following countries:
France: Since 15 January 1996, EASY applications can be filed with INPI in Paris.
United Kingdom: Since 5 February 1996 EASY applications can be filed with the Patent Office in Newport and London.
Switzerland: EASY applications can be filed with the Swiss Federal Institute for Intellectual Property in Berne from 1 April 1996.
With a view to facilitating the introduction of EASY software, information sessions have already been staged in various countries, and further sessions will be organised in the near future. If you would like more information on the EASY project, or if you would like to become a test user and/or attend an information session, please contact Arnold van Putten, EASY Project Leader, or Liz Parker at the EASY Help Desk:
European Patent Office
Patentlaan 2
NL-2280 Rijswijk (ZH)
Tel.: +31-70-340 2669
Fax: +31-70-340 3975
e-mail: Compuserve - 100336,3413
Internet - easyhelp@epo.e-mail.com