Notice -- Database Load Delays: The PTO's patent data mark-up
contractor is in the process of converting the mark-up formats for the
patent database from a proprietary format to a standard format. This
conversion is causing Web database loads to be delayed.
These delays began on April 13, 1999. Any patent issuing after this
date will not be posted on the PTO's Web site until this delay is resolved.
The notice of issuance for these patents will still be published in the
Official Gazette. In addition, the paper files will be available on the
issue day. The April 13 and 20, 1999, patents were issued in accordance with
the requirements of the Patent Act. The date that information about a patent
is available on the PTO's electronic database does not have to be the same
date the patent issued.
We expect to resolve this problem soon, and will provide regular
updates as more information becomes available. We apologize for any
inconvenience this delay may have caused you.
- Wes Gewehr
Administrator for Information Dissemination
Patent and Trademark Office