What is Annex F?

Annex F is a "document type definition" or DTD. In the world of XML, each XML file is written to comply with some DTD. There are thousands of DTDs for various types of data which entities might wish to exchange and communicate to each other. Many DTDs are developed by trade and industry groups, by professional groups, and by standards-setting bodies.

Annex F is a DTD for "application bodies", that is, for patent applications that are in XML format. Annex F defines the things that can be included in application bodies and the formats of those things.

Annex F was developed in connection with consultations under PCT Rule 89.2(b) with Receiving Offices, International Searching Authorities, International Preliminary Examining Authorities and designated and elected Offices, as well as consultations with organizations representing users of the PCT system. Among the participants were USPTO, WIPO, EPO and JPO.