INFORMATION FROM THE EPO
Notice from the European Patent Office dated 10 September 2008 concerning the availability of version 4 of the Online Filing software
Version 4 of the Online Filing software for the electronic filing of patent applications was launched on 9 September 2008. Like all previous versions of the software, version 4 is available from the European Patent Office (EPO) free of charge.
This new version of the software allows applicants and representatives to communicate with their own patent management systems (PMS) via a special interface in the software. They can prepare applications via the PMS interface and send them using Online Filing from their PMS direct to the EPO, WIPO or one of the national offices. In order to be able to do so, users are required to obtain prior approval of their PMS from the patent office(s) concerned. For more information go to www.epoline.org.
Furthermore, all forms in version 4 are compliant with the version of the European Patent Convention (EPC) in force since 13 December 2007. Users can still read the old forms, but can no longer work with them.
Version 4 also includes the following new functionalities:
- Data from sent applications can be transferred to subsequent filings, e.g. from EP(1001E2K) to EP(1038E) or from PCT/RO/101 to Euro-PCT(1200E2K).
- In user administration, administrators can assign folders to specific groups.
- The new version is compatible with MS Vista SP 1.
- Additional configuration options are available in user settings, user administration, system settings and the File Manager.
Version 4 involves minimal changes to the existing user interface, so users of version 3.20 should find the change-over relatively straightforward.
MS Windows 2000 and MS Windows XP users will still be able to choose between standalone and network installation. MS Vista SP 1 users are advised to read the Online Filing installation manual before installing the new software.
Version 4 of the Online Filing software can be obtained free of charge from the "Software" section of the Download Centre at www.epoline.org. The documentation for the new software is available from the Download Centre's "Documentation" section.
More information can be obtained under "Online Filing" on the "Products and services" page at www.epoline.org or by contacting
Procedural and Technical Support
European Patent Office
Patentlaan 2
2288 EE Rijswijk
Netherlands
Tel.: +31 (0)70 340-4500
Fax: +31 (0)70 340-4600
Monday to Friday, 08.00 to 18.00 hrs