What is the Digital Access Service (DAS)?

The Digital Access Service (DAS) at the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is a secure, electronic system designed to facilitate the sharing and exchange of priority documents among participating patent offices around the world.  Here is a breakdown of its main functions and how it benefits patent applicants:

Priority Document Background

When a patent applicant files a patent application somewhere in the world, that patent application could become a priority application.  If the applicant later files another patent application, the second application will likely claim the benefit of or priority to this first application, which is why it is called a priority application.

If the first and second applications are filed in different countries, the patent office receiving the second application will need a copy of the first application.  There are a number of ways this can happen:

• The applicant itself (or its patent attorney) can request the priority document – a certified copy of the priority application – and mail it to the second patent office.  This is usually not a great way to operate; it is slow, expensive, and risks mail problems, etc.
• The applicant can also instruct the first patent office to send the priority document to the second patent office, or that the second patent office to fetch the application from the first.  These methods create the risks of miscommunication and bureaucratic oversights.
• DAS is another method.

Purpose and Functionality of DAS

1. Priority Document Exchange: DAS enables patent offices worldwide to exchange priority documents electronically, automatically, and easily.
2. Centralized and Secure Access: DAS acts as a central repository.  Instead of applicants having to submit priority documents to multiple patent offices, DAS allows them to store documents once, and designated offices can retrieve them directly.
3. Time and Cost Efficiency: By avoiding the need to provide physical copies or file separate submissions with each patent office, DAS simplifies the process, reducing administrative effort, time, and expenses.

How DAS Works for Patent Applicants

1. Initial Deposit: When filing a patent application, an applicant may request that the priority document be uploaded to the DAS system by the office of first filing, often their national or regional IP office.  Alternatively, some offices upload documents automatically.
2. Access Code: Once the priority document is in DAS, the applicant receives an access code from WIPO.  This unique code allows the applicant to authorize other patent offices (offices of second filing) to retrieve the document from DAS.
3. Filing Subsequent Applications: When applying for patents in other countries, the applicant can simply reference the priority document in DAS, using the access code provided.  The participating offices can then download the document directly from DAS instead of requiring the applicant to provide it separately.

Benefits for Patent Applicants

• Simplified Documentation Process: One upload of a priority document to DAS can serve multiple applications in various countries.  Allows applicants to securely submit priority documents a single time, rather than providing certified paper copies to each patent office.
• Reduced Filing Burden: By eliminating the need to submit multiple paper copies of priority documents, applicants save both time and cost.  No more manual certification or physical transmission of documents
• Improved Tracking and Access: DAS provides a digital trail for tracking which offices have accessed the document, enhancing transparency for the applicant.

In essence, DAS streamlines the international patent filing process, making it easier for applicants to protect their inventions globally without duplicating administrative tasks.  If you need assistance starting the process for international patent protection, or need help entering the national phase in the US, or just have questions about foreign patent protection, feel free to contact Phoenix patent attorney Tom Galvani at 602-281-6481.