The search division's first step is to study the description, drawings (if any) and the claims of the application. In carrying out its task, the search division will have access to the documents making up the European application and a complete history of the proceedings up to the start of search. However, the priority documents together with any translations may not yet be available at this stage (see B‑XI, 4).[Rule 62; ]
Source: http://www.epo.org/law-practice/legal-texts/html/guidelines/e/b_xi_3_1.htm
Date retrieved: 17 May 2021