Class Definition for Class 427

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CLASS 427,	COATING PROCESSES
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SECTION I - CLASS DEFINITION

A. This is the generic class for applying or obtaining a coating on a surface. The coating may be hard or soft, permanent or transitory, supplied solely by extraneous materials or supplied wholly or in part by the base material.

B. This is the generic class for impregnating a base by causing a coating material to extend or penetrate into the base material, or into the interstices of a porous, cellular or foraminous material. (1) Throughout this class the term "base" or "substrate" refers to the surface upon which a coating is formed except in those instances in which a surface has been previously coated and a second coating is applied, in which case the initial surface is considered the base or substrate. In the case of laminated products the base or substrate is the surface upon which the coating is directly applied. (2) Throughout this class, the term "coating" is used in the generic sense to include both surface coating and impregnation.

C. This class also takes preparatory treatments of the base material, subsequent treatments of the coated base material and other ancillary noncoating operations claimed, per se, processes limited to etching for making a base more compatible with, or adherent to, the coating wherein the base is the substrate (work) onto which a coating is applied are included, when there is no class which specifically provides therefor.

SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS

NONSIGNIFICANT COATING PROCESSES

A. A patent containing a claim to a coating composition or compound, which claim is, per se, classified in Classes 106, 252, 260, 423, and 520, and also a claim to a nonsignificant process of utilizing the claimed compound or composition to coat a substrate, is classified with the claimed compound or composition. The following guide lines are used to determine if a process step is significant.

1. Any pretreatment or post-treatment of a base or applied coating is a significant process step; processes limited to etching or making a base more compatible with, or adherent to, the coating wherein the base is the substrate (work) onto which a coating is applied are included, e.g., curing, drying, or smoothing a coating, or cleaning or drying a base.

2. A specific recitation of how the coating is applied; e.g., brushing, dipping, spraying, immersion, etc., is significant. General statements of applying, covering, or coating, etc. are not significant.

3. Processes resulting in plural coatings are considered significant.

4. A process resulting in a coating having a specific thickness or lack of uniformity is considered significant.

5. Specific recitation as to the condition of a coating being applied is generally significant except: (a) A condition also included in an independent composition claim, e.g., pH concentration, etc., is not significant. (b) Statements that a coating material is molten or in an organic, inorganic, or aqueous solution is not significant unless accompanied by a recitation of specific times or temperatures or chemically defined solvents.

6. Structural limitations regarding the base to which the coating is applied are considered to render the process significant if the product produced is not classified in Class 428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles.

B. Patents containing only claims to a process of coating a substrate wherein no significant process steps are recited, are classified in Class 428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, according to the product produced by the process. 1. Guidelines for use in determining if a process is significant are the same as set out under "A" note above. Note especially the reference to structural limitations of the base being coated.

C. Patents containing (1) a claim to a compound or composition classifiable in Classes 106, 252, 260, 423, and 520 (2) a coated product claim which, per se, does not have significant structure for Class 428 and (3) a claim to a significant process which is, per se, classifiable in Class 427 is classified as an original in Class 428.

CLATHRATES AND INTERCALATES

Clathrates and intercalates (inclusion compounds), per se, are classified hierarchically and subject to the limitations set forth in the compound (element) classes based both on the encapsulant and encapsulate. For example, a clathrate of urea and hydrogen peroxide is classified in Class 564, subclass 32, urea and an organic compound in Class 564, subclass 1.5, dextran and iodine in Class 536, subclass 112, etc. Where a patent does not state that a material is either a clathrate or an intercalate, the assumption is made that the material is either a coated or encapsulated product classified in Class 428, subclasses 402+.

References to Other Classes, below, contain the following areas:

Coating Processes Classified Elsewhere, including Bleaching, Dyeing, Chemical Modification of Textiles and paper, Certain Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles. And Hazardous or Toxic Waste Product in Coating Processes

SECTION III - REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

8,	Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical Modification of Textiles and Fibers, for: Dyeing--Class 8 takes dyeing in general and combined processes of dyeing and coating in any sequence. The application of a colored solidifiable coating to a surface is classified in this class (427). Class 427 takes the coating of a dyed article except where the coating is a mordant or fixing agent, a weighting agent for a textile or is reacted with a textile base to chemically modify the same. Treatments of textiles which are ancillary to or closely associated with dyeing such as, for example, mordanting, weighting, and fastness improving are also included in Class 8. Bleaching --Class 8 takes bleaching in general, however, the bleaching of a base preparatory to the application of a coating or impregnating composition is in Class 427. Where the coating or impregnant is merely employed as a mask to delineate areas to be bleached or for stabilizing or improving the whiteness of the treated material, the process belongs in Class 8. Chemical Modification of Textiles and Paper.--Class 8, Particularly subclasses 115.51+ takes reactive fluid treatments of textile materials and paper where there is chemical modification of the textile or paper base, even though combined with a coating operation with, per se, is classifiable in this class (427). Chemical and Fluid Treatment of Hides, Skins, and Leather.--Class 8, subclasses 94.1+ takes the treatment of hides, skins, feathers, and animal tissues not elsewhere provided for. For the line between this class and Class 8, in regard to such treatment, see the reference to Class 427 under "Search Class" in the notes to the definition of Class 8, subclass 94.1. Certain Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles.--Class 8 also takes special fluid treatments, namely, weighting mordanting, carroting, swelling or plasticizing artificial fibers, protection of textiles against the deleterious effect of agents used in the processes provided for in Class 8 and cleaning or laundering of textiles and fibers. (Coating Processes Classified Elsewhere).
28,	Textiles: Manufacturing, appropriate subclasses, particularly subclasses 169 , 178+, 261, and 265+ for combinations of fluid treatments and significant textile operations. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles)
29,	Metal Working, provides for processes of making articles where the process includes a metal working operation and a coating operation, and is not provided for by Class 72, Metal Deforming. subclasses 17.2+ of Class 29 provides for processes of making thin sheet metal and metal foil where the process of manufacture includes coating a form or base with metal and then removing the material of the form or base from the coating; subclasses 400.1+ particularly subclasses 527.1+ provides for processes for manufacture of miscellaneous articles where the process includes a coating and a metal working operation; subclass 424 contains processes of coating a base with a protective layer, treating or shaping the coated base, and then removing the coating; subclass 458 provides for processes of assembling and/or joining preceded by a coating step, and subclass 460 contains processes followed by a coating step. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
34,	Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, subclass 307 for processes of drying wherein the object being dried is shielded by a coating, partial or complete, to retard the drying process. For the line between Classes 34 and 427, see the note to the main class definition of Class 34. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
51,	Abrasive Tool Making Process, Material, or Composition, for a process of coating which is peculiar to abrasive tool making. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
57,	Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and Twining, subclass 362 for processes including coating in combination with the operations provided for in that class. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
65,	Glass Manufacturing, appropriate subclasses, especially subclasses 45+ for glass molding combined with a coating step. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
72,	Metal Deforming, subclasses 46 and 47 for processes of plastic deformation of a metal workpiece including a coating step. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
75,	Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, etc., subclass 332 for processes of producing solid particulate free metal directly from liquid metal (e.g., liquid comminuting, etc.) with subsequent coating of the particles. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
86,	Ammunition and Explosive-Charge Making, subclass 19 for coating processes peculiar to the treatment or preparation of ammunition and explosive devices. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
101,	Printing, for processes of printing and stenciling, except those processes utilizing a particular composition wherein the mere fact of printing or stenciling is stated, which are classified in this class (427). Processes which include specific manipulation of the stencils or the use of specific stencils are in Class 101, Printing, subclass 129 . See the Search Class 101 note under subclass 144 of this class. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
117,	Single-Crystal, Oriented-Crystal, and Epitaxy Growth Processes; Non-Coating Apparatus Therefor, for processes for growing therein-defined single-crystal of all types of materials and by all techniques, including epitaxy. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
144,	Woodworking, subclasses 329+ for a process of coating wood combined with woodworking operations. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
148,	Metal Treatment, particularly subclasses 206+ for processes of coating a metal substrate with an external source of carbon, nitrogen, or both resulting in a coating that contains a combination of the carbon or nitrogen or both with a component from the metal substrate. Class 148, also, takes as original processes of treating a metal substrate with an agent other than a carbon or nitrogen containing agent to form a coating on the metal by combination of the external agent with a component of the metal substrate, other than by a Class 204 operation. Combinations of coating operations with a process of heat treatment to modify or maintain the internal physical structure (i.e., microstructure) or chemical property of metal, goes to Class 148 as original, unless metal casting, fusion bonding, machining, or working is involved. If metal casting, fusion bonding, machining, or working is involved in the combination, placement goes to Class 148 only if the heat treatment is a significant heat treatment as defined in section III, A, of the Class 148 definition. Since diffusion may be involved in a coating operation of metal and diffusion involves the microstructure of metal, per se, coating operations (i.e., other than reactive coating operations) go as originals in Class 427 if the specified diffusion occurs during the coating step. However, a heat treatment step of the solid metal, independent of the coating step which causes diffusion to affect the microstructure of the metal goes as original to Class 148. See particularly, subclasses 516+ of Class 148 for combinations of coating with Class 148 operations. Class 427 takes simultaneous ion implantation and diffusion as proper for Class 427 if coating is present. However, inclusion of a separate step which by itself would be classifiable in Class 148 is enough to place the combination in Class 148. Moreover, a combination of a metal working step proper for one of the metal working classes and ion implantation for coating purposes will be proper for Class 148. See particularly subclass 239 of Class 148 for ion implantation of a metal substrate according to these distinctions. When limited to coating, per se, claims to coating by either reactive coating as in Class 148 or a coating process of Class 427 reside as original in the generic Class 427. If there is a combined coating operation involving reactive coating (other than carburizing or nitriding) and an electro coating operation, that combination goes to Class 204. However, if an additional operation which by itself would be classifiable in Class 148 is included in the combination with reactive coating of Class 148 and Class 204, electrocoating, this will go to Class 148. Reactive coating for Class 148 occurs on the metal substrate and not externally thereof. Thus, Class 427 provides for coating a metal substrate with a resin composition in an immersion bath wherein metal ions leaching from the metal substrate enter the immersion medium and react or complex externally of the metal substrate to deposit a coating containing an element from the metal substrate. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
149,	Explosive and Thermic Compositions or Charges, subclasses 3+ for processes of making explosives combined with a coating operation as well as patents for processes of coating, per se, of an explosive or with an explosive coating. Patents directed to coating of an explosive to merely protect or to completely desensitize it are in Class 427. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
156,	Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, particularly subclasses 278+ for laminating processes combined with a coating step. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
162,	Paper Making and Fiber Liberation, particularly subclasses 158+ for processes of applying a coating material to a web deposited from a liquid fibrous suspension prior to the final drying of the web, and subclasses 135+ for paper making combined with coating after ultimate drying. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
164,	Metal Founding, subclass 14 for processes of making a mold and subsequently coating the mold, subclasses 72+ for metal casting processes including the coating of a mold surface with a treating agent, and subclass 75 for processes of coating a preformed workpiece prior to compositing by metal casting. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
166,	Wells, subclasses 285+ for processes of cementing a well. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
204,	Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, subclasses 155+ for a process of coating involving chemical preparation of a compound or element by application to a base of electrical or wave energy in a magnetic field (but without involving electrolysis as provided for in Class 205), where said base supplies a part or all of the coating (e.g., by conversion at the surface, etc.); subclasses 164+ for a process of coating involving chemical preparation of a compound or element by application of an electrostatic field or electrical discharge to a base which supplies a part or all of the coating; subclasses 471+ for a process of coating by electrophoresis or electro-osmosis; and subclasses 192.12+ for coating by glow discharge deposition (e.g., cathode sputtering, etc.). See the subclass 450 (1) Note for the definition of "electrophoresis" as used in Class 204. All combinations of plural coating methods (except in cases where electrolysis is involved) in which at least one coated layer is formed by electrophoresis, electro-osmosis, or cathode sputtering are classified in Class 204. A patent with a claim to a coating process classifiable in Class 427 and a claim to a coating process classifiable in Class 204 will be placed as an original in Class 427 and cross-referenced to Class 204. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
205,	Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein, and Methods of Preparing the Compositions, subclasses 80+ for electrolytic coating processes and subclasses 183+, 188+, 191+, and 198+ for processes involving plural coating steps, at least one but not all of which is electrolytic. Combinations of preparatory electrolytic processes, other than coating, with processes of coating falling within the scope of Class 427 are classified in Class 427. A patent with a claim to a coating process classifiable in Class 427 and a claim to a coating process classifiable in Class 205 will be placed as an original in Class 427 and cross-referenced to Class 205. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
209,	Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, subclasses 47 through 70,for processes of separating components of a mixture of solids by coating some of the components with a material. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
210,	Liquid Purification or Separation, subclasses 777+ for a separating process employing a precoat or filter aid. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
216,	Etching a Substrate: Processes, appropriate subclasses for etching combined with a coating process where the etching is a manufacturing step and is not intended to improve the adherence of the applied coating to the substrate. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
228,	Metal Fusion Bonding, subclasses 101+ provides for the process of coating a base and then treating the coated base, as by rolling or forging, to effect or improve the bond between the base and coating; subclasses 101+ also provides for soldering, brazing or welding independent self-sustaining parts together; and see particularly subclasses 208+ for bonding involving precoating with a bond facilitating metal. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
241,	Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, appropriate process subclasses for comminution combined with prior coating operations. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
242,	Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, subclasses 18+ , 370+, 520+, and 550+ for a winding or unwinding device adapted to move an elongated material relative to an unclaimed coating station, and subclasses 18+ and 520 for winding with a nominal wetting station that may temporarily cause windings to remain in position in a coil. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
264,	Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating: Processes, appropriate subclasses, for processes of molding or shaping combined with coating. For a detailed line between this class and Class 264, see the class definitions of Class 264 and the notes in subclass 129 of 264. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
283,	Printed Matter, for processes of making fraud preventing printed matter or blanks therefor which include more than a coating process. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
399,	Electrophotography, subclass 57 for liquid control developing, subclasses 58+ for concentration control of developing material, subclasses 168+ for charging, subclasses 246+ for sprayed liquid developing, subclass 248 for immersion, and subclasses 265+ for application of dry developing. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
404,	Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus, for processes of building roads or pavements combined with a coating step. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
424,	Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions, appropriate subclass for a process of applying a composition of that class to an animal (including human) body. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
426,	Food or Edible Material: Processes, Compositions, and Products, for processes of coating involving food and see the notes thereto for a detailed line between the classes. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
430,	Radiation Imagery Chemistry: Process, Composition, or Product Thereof, for: a. Processes of coating a base with a radiation sensitive material for the purpose of imaging by subsequent exposure to radiation. b. Applying a nonradiation sensitive coating to a radiation sensitive surface wherein the radiation sensitive surface is intended to be used in imaging when exposed to radiation. c. Processes of perfecting or protecting previously exposed images by a coating operation. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
435,	Chemistry: Molecular Biology and Microbiology, for processes having a significant or nonsignificant coating step and otherwise proper for the class; see subclasses 4+ for processes of making measurement or test compositions, strips, or films; and for compositions for preparing micro-organisms, cells or tissues for microscopic examination and processes of applying said compositions to the micro-organisms, cells, or tissues to be examined subclasses 174+ for processes of making carrier-bound or immobilized enzyme or microbial cell, such as within a polymer or gel or absorbed on a resin; subclasses 183+ for methods of making a modified or stabilized enzyme or composition thereof (other than immobilized); and subclasses 243+ for methods of making a composition containing a micro-organism. When there are only generic claims and multiply disclosed species or when there are equally comprehensive species claims and when the species are classifiable in Class 427 and in Class 435, placement of the original is in Class 435 with appropriate cross-references to Class 427. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
445,	Electric Lamp or Space Discharge Component or Device Manufacturing, subclasses 1+ and 60+ for method and apparatus for manufacturing electric lamp and electric space discharge devices. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
502,	Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product or Process of Making, for a composition comprising a catalyst or sorbent, per se, or a process of making such a composition which may include a coating step. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
505,	Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material, Process, subclasses 300+ for processes of producing high temperature (T_c> 30 K) superconductors, particularly subclasses 434, 446+, 452, or 470+. (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles).
588,	Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment, subclasses 249 through 260for a coating or a covering process to permanently contain hazardous or toxic waste (Named Fluid Treatments of Textiles); appropriate subclasses for the chemical destruction or containment of hazardous or toxic waste. (Hazardous or Toxic Waste Product in Coating Processes).
588,	Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment, appropriate subclasses for the destruction or containment of hazardous or toxic waste. (Hazardous or Toxic Waste Product in Coating Processes).

SUBCLASSES

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 1]

BODY MEMBER PRINTING (E.G., FINGERPRINTING, ETC.)

This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes of taking prints, impressions or patterns of human or other animal skin surfaces wherein the body member, per se, is the printing device or of making body member prints visible.

(1) Note. This subclass takes processes of making fingerprints, footprints, noseprints, etc., usually for the purpose of identification.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.1]

2.1

MEDICAL OR DENTAL PURPOSE PRODUCT; PARTS; SUBCOMBINATIONS; INTERMEDIATES (E.G., BALLOON CATHETER, SPLINT):

This subclass is indented under the class definition. Processes in which the product is intended to be used for a medical or dental purpose, other than coating a living body, parts, subcombinations, or intermediates thereof or therefor.

(1) Note. Subject to the limitations and caveats of Class 427 definition, subject matter proper for this and indented subclasses includes the following:

(a) processes which make a medical or dental product and which product is proper for placement in, or which product is intended for use in a process proper for placement in, Class 128 (including Classes 600, 602, 604, and 606), Class 424, Class 433, or Class 623;

(b) other processes which make a product which is intended for, or which is intended for use in a process having, a clearly medical or dental use. For example, an in vitro diagnostic testing process or product (e.g., for bodily fluids) such as a test color-change strip or an immunoassay device, surgical gloves, gowns, or other apparel. See the Search Class notes below.

(2) Note. Coating of articles (not otherwise satisfying the definition of medical or dental products) are not proper herein when the coating is a biocide intended to preserve or protect the article; such is classified elsewhere in Class 427 if significant coating is claimed, and otherwise is classified according to the article or composition preserved or protected.

(3) Note. Coating a living body is not proper for Class 427; see Search Class notes hereinbelow that reference this note.

(4) Note. Search various appropriate subclasses elsewhere in Class 427 for significant coating of cosmetics, biocides, or other nonmedical, nondental compositions of Class 424.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

164+,

for coating processes relating to optical lenses not intended to be implanted, such as corrective or contact.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

2,	Apparel, for garments such as surgical gloves, gowns, masks, etc.
8,	Bleaching and Dyeing; Fluid Treatment and Chemical Modification of Textiles and Fibers, for processes of dyeing, bleaching, chemical modification of textiles and paper, or chemical and fluid treatment of hides, skins, and leather. See Class 427 definition for elaboration of the class line.
36,	Boots, Shoes, and Leggings, appropriate subclasses for foot coverings and foot devices; see subclasses 140+ for orthopedics.
128,	Surgery, for (A) methods of treatment of the living body, (B) apparatus used in the inspection and treatment of diseases, wounds, and other abnormal conditions of the bodies of animals, including articles and stock-materials directed to products when (1) solely disclosed to be worn by or attached to the body (e.g., sanitary napkin, diaper) and to be a receptor for a body discharge, (2) solely disclosed as a shield or protective device to be worn on, or attached to, a body member or part (e.g., bandage, dressing) and having a therapeutic use, or (3) disclosed as having a Class 128 utility of (1) or (2) or in the class definition and a general utility for Class 428, but in which one claim is specific to the Class 128 disclosed use, and (C) methods and means for manufacturing surgical appliances not classified elsewhere. (see the (3) Note above)
135,	Tent, Canopy, Umbrella, or Cane, for staffs, crutches, stilts, etc., used as aids to walking but not adapted to be secured to the limbs.
351,	Optics: Eye Examining, Vision Testing and Correcting, subclasses 41+ for spectacles and eyeglasses as aids to vision, and subclasses 160+ for removable contact lens having specific optical characteristics for its use.
422,	Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting, Deodorizing, Preserving, or Sterilizing, for chemical apparatus which may have an in vitro medical use such as subclasses 50+ for analyzer, indicator, or lab device (subclasses 55+ for structured visual or optical indicators such as test papers, strips, or columns).
424,	Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions, for: compositions (A) for preventing, alleviating, treating, or curing abnormal and pathological conditions of the living body, for maintaining, increasing, decreasing, limiting, or destroying a physiologic body function, for diagnosing a physiological condition or state by an in vivo test, for controlling or protecting an environment or living body by attracting, disabling, inhibiting, killing, modifying, repelling, or retarding an animal or micro-organism, (B) for deodorizing, protecting, adorning, or grooming a body, (C) for fermentates and extracts for use in A or B and not elsewhere provided for, and (D) such compositions defined in terms of specific structure; methods of making the above compositions; methods of using the class-defined compositions for purposes in A and B; and methods of using per se compounds for purposes in A and B. Especially see subclasses 400+ for a composition defined in terms of specific structure having a utility for Class 424 and the methods of making which involve nonsignificant coating. (See the (3) Note above).
428,	Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, for therein defined stock-materials (i.e., materials having no significant structure) of the subject matter of Class 433 or Class 623.
433,	Dentistry, for methods, apparatus, implements, and devices relating to the treatment of teeth or gums or the replacement of teeth, or for methods normally performed by a dentist. See subclass 217.1 for coating of natural teeth with adhesive or treating agent in the patient. Class 433 provides for the articles while Class 428 provides for the stock-materials. (See the (3) Note above).
434,	Education and Demonstration, for apparatus and processes not elsewhere classifiable for providing instruction about a subject; or for means for displaying for purposes of comparison, contrast, or demonstration; or for demonstrating characteristics and advantages of apparatus, objects, or processes. Particularly, see subclasses 262+ for class subject matter relating to human anatomy or physiology, to treatment of the human body to cure some disease or disorder, or to a cutting operation on the human body to correct some improper condition, and subclasses 295+ for class subject matter relating to organisms and vital processes or to the preparation, stuffing, and mounting of animal skins.
435,	Chemistry: Molecular Biology and Microbiology, for processes having a significant or nonsignificant coating step and otherwise proper for the class; see subclasses 4+ for processes of making measurement or test compositions, strips, or films; and for compositions for preparing micro-organisms, cells or tissues for microscopic examination and processes of applying said compositions to the micro-organisms, cells, or tissues to be examined subclasses 174+ for processes of making carrier-bound or immobilized enzyme or microbial cell such as within a polymer or gel or absorbed on a resin; subclasses 183+ for methods of making a modified or stabilized enzyme or composition thereof (other than immobilized); and subclasses 243+ for methods of making a composition containing a micro-organism. When there are only generic claims and multiply disclosed species or when there are equally comprehensive species claims and the species are classifiable in Class 427 and in Class 435, placement of the original is in Class 435 with appropriate cross-references to Class 427.
436,	Chemistry: Analytical and Immunological Testing, for in vitro processes of testing involving a chemical reaction or an immunological binding interaction (including those which may be medical or dental).
523,	Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, for solid polymer containing compositions or process of preparing; see subclass 103 for compositions which have reduced health risks upon exposure thereto during incidental handling or body contact, such as a coating composition containing a bitter tasting component or a composition which reduces carcinogenicity (e.g., coating composition of carbon black); and subclasses 105+ for nonmedicated composition or process of preparing, which is specifically intended for contact with living animal tissue (other than apparel), such as surgical related composition (e.g., suture, catheter, dilator), prosthesis composition, contact lens making composition, surgical tape adhesive composition, nonthrombogenic plastics composition (e.g., for making blood pouches, tubes, catheters), composition for use as tooth or bone replacement, restorative, or implant, or composition for dental or denture devices.
528,	Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, cross-reference art collection 950 for synthetic resins of any type within the Class 520 series which is intended for use in replacing or restoring partially or wholly hard tissue as normally found in animals (e.g., dentures, bones), and excluding synthetic hair or skin and contact lenses. (Note that polymers which are a part of a composition are found in Class 523).
600,	Surgery, for miscellaneous Class 128 subject matter; see subclasses 1+ for radioactive substance applied to body for therapy; subclasses 9+ for magnetic field applied to body for therapy; subclasses 16+ for heart augmentation; subclasses 19+ for antigravitation systems; subclasses 21+ for isolation treatment chamber; subclasses 23+ for speech correction; subclass 25 for surgically implanted vibratory hearing aid; subclasses 26+ for sleep or relaxation inducing therapy; subclasses 29+ for body inserted urinary or colonic incontinence; subclass 36 for blood vessels or grafts; subclass 37 for internal organ support or sling; and subclasses 38+ for substituting for or enhancing human copulation.
602,	Surgery: Splint, Brace, or Bandage, for Class 128 subject matter relating to orthopedic bandages or to injury or wound bandages.
604,	Surgery, for body treating and medicating methods and apparatus which includes the application, storing, collecting, introduction, or removal of materials from the body, including (1) medicators such as dosing device, hypodermic injector, syringe, depositor, or applicator, container, pump, or valve and (2) receptors such as aspirator, lacteal device, catamenial, diaper, absorbent pad, or material.
606,	Surgery, for Class 128 subject matter relating to devices or appliances for use in operative surgery upon the body, or in preparation for operative surgery, or for devices designed to assist in operative surgery.
623,	Prosthesis (i.e., Artificial Body Members), Parts Thereof, or Aids and Accessories Therefor, for artificial substitutes or parts for a human body particularly manufactured or adapted to replace (completely or partially) or assist a missing or defective natural body member, or part thereof, for functional or cosmetic reasons. Class 623 provides for the articles (significant structure), while Class 428 provides for the stock-materials (i.e., articles in name only).

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.11]

2.11

Analysis, diagnosis, measuring, or testing product (e.g., specimen preparation, microscope slide smearing):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.1. Processes in which the product is intended to be subjected to or is intended to be used in analysis, diagnosis, measuring, or testing, which may be in vivo or in vitro; parts, subcombinations, or intermediates thereof or therefor.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

128,	Surgery, for apparatus used in the inspection and treatment of diseases, wounds, and other abnormal conditions of the bodies of animals and methods and means for manufacturing surgical appliances not classified elsewhere.
356,	Optics: Measuring and Testing, subclasses 244+ for sample, specimen, or standard holder or support (e.g., plate or slide) intended for optical inspection, measuring, or testing.
359,	Optics: Systems (Including Communication) and Elements, subclasses 396+ for transparent microscope slide in combination with a microscope.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.12]

2.12

For contacting living body or transfusing bodily fluid (e.g., endoscope, electrode, thermometer, probe):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.11. Processes in which the product is intended to contact the living body or to contact a transfusing bodily fluid, such as spinal fluid or blood, in order to accomplish its function; parts, subcombinations, or intermediates thereof or therefor.

(1) Note. Transfusing bodily fluid is that which is being handled, processed, and/or maintained with the intent to return it to a living body.

(2) Note. The living body includes the bodily fluids while they are in the living body, such as blood, bile, or urine in the bladder.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

128,	Surgery, for apparatus used in the inspection and treatment of diseases, wounds, and other abnormal conditions of the bodies of animals and methods and means for manufacturing surgical appliances not classified elsewhere.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.13]

2.13

Layer formed contains chemical reagent or chemically reacts with substrate (e.g., cell stain or fix, pH paper, immobilized antigen):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.11. Processes in which the layer formed contains or is intended to receive a chemical reagent which causes or participates in a chemical reaction in order to accomplish its analysis, diagnosis, measurement, or test function; parts, subcombinations, or intermediates thereof or therefor.

(1) Note. A chemical reaction here includes covalent bonding, ionic bonding, complexing, ion exchange, and ligand bonding. Not included here are bonds which are no stronger than hydrogen bonding.

(2) Note. Coating a microscope slide with a stain or with a specimen to be stained or staining a specimen are proper for placement here.

(3) Note. Coating with a chemical reagent which does not primarily participate in an analysis, diagnosis, measurement, or test function is not proper for placement in this subclass (on that basis); thus, coating a microscope slide with heparin would be placed in subclass 2.11.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

424,	Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions, and for compositions for preparing micro-organisms, cells or tissues for microscopic examination and processes of applying said compositions to the micro-organisms, cells, or tissues to be examined.
435,	Chemistry: Molecular Biology and Microbiology, for processes having a significant or nonsignificant coating step and otherwise proper for Class 427; see subclasses 4+ for processes of making measurement or test compositions, strips, or films; subclasses 174+ for processes of making carrier-bond or immobilized enzyme or microbial cell such as within a polymer or gel or absorbed on a resin; subclasses 183+ for methods of making a modified or stabilized enzyme or composition thereof (other than immobilized); and subclasses 243+ for methods of making a composition containing a micro-organism. When there are only generic claims and multiply disclosed species or when there are equally comprehensive species claims and when the species are classifiable in Class 427 and in Class 435, placement of the original is in Class 435 with appropriate cross-references to Class 427.
436,	Chemistry: Analytical and Immunological Testing, for in vitro processes of analysis involving a chemical reaction or an immunological binding interaction (including those which may involve a medical or dental purpose).

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.14]

2.14

Particulate or unit-dosage-article base (e.g., tablet, pill, pellet, capsule, liposome, powder, controlled-release implant, suppository; excluding transdermal patch):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.1. Processes in which the coating is applied to a base which is a particulate or a unit-dosage-article and such that the coated product has a particulate or unit-dosage physical form; excluding transdermal patch.

(1) Note. A unit-dosage-article is one which is provided as one or a few discrete, readily and independently handleable piece or pieces for the intended medical or dental use. Any of the following terms are prima facie indicative of a unit-dosage-article: tablet, capsule, dragee, pill, bead.

(2) Note. A particulate is a small solid bit of matter which typically can be poured like a fluid when handled. Any of the following terms are prima facie indicative of a particulate: liposome, powder, microcapsule, granule, pellet, bead, flake, platelet, particle, grain, microsphere, granulate.

(3) Note. Clathrates and intercalates (inclusion compounds) are not proper for placement here. Clathrates and intercalates (inclusion compounds), per se, are classified hierarchically and subject to the limitations set forth in the compound (element) classes based both on the encapsulant and encapsulate. See the main definition for Class 427, section II, LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES, the subsection entitled CLATHRATES AND INTERCALATES, for examples.

(4) Note. Skin patches or transdermal patches are not considered unit-dosage-articles; see subclass 2.31.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

212+,

for coating or encapsulating of solid granules, pellets, beads, flakes, platelets, or other particles en masse; especially, subclasses 213.3+ for such processes using an emulsion or dispersion to form a solid-walled microcapsule on a solid, such as a liposome; when other than a medical or dental product is produced.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

264,	Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating: Processes, subclasses 4.1+ for processes using an emulsion or dispersion to form a solid-walled microcapsule around a liquid, such as forming a liquid-core liposome.
424,	Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions, for class defined compositions, the nominal processes of making, and the nominal processes of using; see subclass 1.21 for radionuclide containing liposome; subclass 1.29 for radionuclide containing coated or impregnated particulate; and subclasses 400+ for preparations characterized by special form such as coated (notably, subclass 408 for biocide, repellant, or attractant in the form of a capsule, pellet, or tablet; subclass 417 for biocide, repellant, or attractant in the form of a coated particulate such as a liposome; subclasses 422+ for implant or insert such as surgical or suppository; subclasses 439+ for food as carrier for pharmaceutical such as candy coated; subclass 450 for liposome form; subclasses 451+ for capsule; subclasses 464+ for tablet, lozenge, or pill such as coated, printed, or sustained or differential release type; and subclasses 489+ for particulate form such as coated powder, granule, bead, microcapsule, or pellet).
426,	Food or Edible Material: Processes, Compositions, and Products, subclasses 89+ for coated food products and subclasses 302+ for processes of surface coating of a solid food with a liquid.
428,	Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclasses 402+ for coated grain, granule, or small bit of matter, such as microcapsule, liposome, or powder. See (1) Note in Class 428, subclass 402 for rules of placement.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.15]

2.15

Fluidized bed utilized:

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.14. Processes in which a bed or mass of particles or unit-dosage-articles is maintained in a state of fluidized suspension by passing a gas or vapor in a generally upward direction through the particles or unit-dosage-articles.

(1) Note. Coating material may be introduced directly into the fluidized mass or along with the fluidizing gas or vapor.

(2) Note. Placement here does not require that the particles or unit-dosage-articles be coated while in the fluidizing gas or vapor; they may be coated before entry to or after exit from the fluidized bed.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

213+,

for such processes acting on solid granules, pellets, beads, flakes, platelets, or other particles when other than a medical or dental product is produced.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.16]

2.16

Retarded or controlled-release layer produced (e.g., enteric):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.15. Processes in which the product is intended to provide retarded (or delayed), timed, differential, sustained, or intermittent administration (or delivery) of an active ingredient.

(1) Note. Merely providing a product protected for storage or handling is not included here. For placement here, the control layer must do more than protect against ambient conditions or against the conditions of the mouth. Examples of types of products proper for placement here include the following: continuous delivery by slow or slowed release; discontinuous delivery by two or more stages; enteric coating for protection from stomach conditions for product intended to be orally administered; sustained or differential release implant or insert such as a suppository.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

2.19,	for similar subject matter involving an en masse rotating means rather than a fluidized bed.
2.21,	for similar subject matter not involving either a fluidized bed or an en masse rotating means.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

424,

Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions, for pharmaceutical and diagnostic compositions which are defined in terms of specific structure such as coated so that the active ingredient is released in a retarded (or delayed), timed, differential, sustained, or intermittent manner; see subclasses 422+ for implant or insert; subclasses 457+ for sustained or differential release composition in a capsule; subclasses 468+ for tablet, lozenge, or pill; and subclasses 474+ for enteric coated medicament.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.17]

2.17

Significant color or other intended appearance altering layer formed (e.g., shining, indicia):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.15. Processes in which a layer is formed or modified for the disclosed intent to alter the appearance and which is more than a nominally recited application of a dye or pigment.

(1) Note. For purposes of this subclass, differential or non-uniform color application, such as a strip or a printing of a symbol or a letter, is always significant and, therefore, proper for placement in this subclass.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

2.2,	for similar subject matter involving an en masse rotating means rather than a fluidized bed.
2.23,	for similar subject matter not involving either a fluidized bed or an en masse rotating means.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.18]

2.18

En masse rotating means employed (e.g., rotating pan, tumbling):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.14. Processes in which a bed or mass of particles or unit-dosage-articles is subjected to rotating means (i.e., rotating means acts en masse as opposed to acting on a particle or unit-dosage-article individually) and in which mechanical contact between the particles or unit-dosage-articles and the rotating means occurs and contributes to movement.

(1) Note. Processes employing rotating means which create and/or maintain an emulsion or dispersion or colloid are not proper for placement here; see subclasses 2.14, 2.21, 2.22, or 2.23.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

242,	for similar processes wherein other than a medical or dental product is produced.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.19]

2.19

Retarded or controlled-release layer produced (e.g., enteric):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.18. Processes in which the product is intended to provide retarded (or delayed), timed, differential, sustained, or intermittent administration (or delivery) of an active ingredient.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

2.16,	for similar subject matter further involving a fluidized bed.
2.21,	for similar subject matter not involving either a fluidized bed or an en masse rotating means.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

424,

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.2]

2.2

Significant color or other intended appearance altering layer formed (e.g., shining, indicia):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.18. Processes in which a layer is formed or modified for the disclosed intent to alter the appearance and which is more than a nominally recited application of a dye or pigment.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

2.17,	for similar subject matter further involving a fluidized bed.
2.23,	for similar subject matter not involving either a fluidized bed or an en masse rotating means.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.21]

2.21

Retarded or controlled-release layer produced (e.g., enteric):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.14. Processes in which the product is intended to provide retarded (or delayed), timed, differential, sustained, or intermittent administration (or delivery) of an active ingredient.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

2.16,	for similar subject matter further involving a fluidized bed.
2.21,	for similar subject matter not involving either a fluidized bed or an en masse rotating means.

SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:

424,

Drug, Bio-Affecting and Body Treating Compositions, for pharmaceutical and diagnostic compositions which are defined in terms of specific structure, such as coated so that the active ingredient is released in a retarded (or delayed), timed, differential, sustained, or intermittent manner; see subclasses 422+ for implant or insert; subclasses 457+ for sustained or differential release composition in a capsule; subclasses 468+ for tablet, lozenge, or pill; and subclasses 474+ for enteric coated medicament.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.22]

2.22

Gelatin matrix layer produced:

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.14. Processes in which the formed layer comprises a matrix or continuous phase of gelatin.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

2.15,	for similar subject matter further involving a fluidized bed.
2.18,	for similar subject matter further involving an en masse rotating means.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.23]

2.23

Significant color or other intended appearance altering layer formed (e.g., shining, indicia):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.14. Processes in which a layer is formed or modified for the disclosed intent to alter the appearance and which is more than a nominally recited application of a dye or pigment.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

2.17,	for similar subject matter further involving a fluidized bed.
2.2,	for similar subject matter further involving an en masse rotating means.

[List of Patents for class 427 subclass 2.24]

2.24

Implantable permanent prosthesis (i.e., artificial body member) (e.g., pacemaker, lens, cornea, glaucoma shunt, heart valve, muscle, spinal disc, breast, internal organ):

This subclass is indented under subclass 2.1. Processes in which the product is an implantable artificial body member or a part or subcombination thereof, which is intended to physically replace a missing or defective natural body member or part by insertion into the body or attachment onto epidermal tissue in a permanent manner; parts, subcombinations, or intermediates thereof or therefor.

(1) Note. This subclass and its indents are intended to provide for all appropriate processes under subclass 2.1 wherein the product would be found in Class 623 and which is intended to be inserted into the body in a permanent manner, unless proper for a subclass appearing above this one.

(2) Note. Prosthesis herein means a replacement or assistant for a missing or defective part of a living body.

(3) Note. Artificial skin intended to remain on the body; e.g., be absorbed, is placed here.

(4) Note. In the case of generic claims and multiple disclosed utilities, multiple cross-referencing is required; for example, coating of a material disclosed for heart valve, vascular prosthesis, blood bag or IV tubing.

SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:

2.1,	for similar subject matter which is not intended to be permanently implanted; e.g., splint.
2.24,	for coating of a material disclosed for heart valve
2.3,	blood bag or IV tubing
2.5,	vascular prosthesis.
2.29,