WRITING OR DRAWING IMPLEMENTS; BUREAU ACCESSORIES

Description

Class B43 encompasses mechanical writing and drawing instruments, including pens, pencils, markers, and related implements for applying marks to surfaces. It covers the design, construction, and functional features of hand-held writing tools, as well as associated office equipment and accessories such as pen holders, inkwells, and desk organization devices. The class includes both traditional implements (fountain pens, ballpoint pens, mechanical pencils) and specialized drawing tools (drafting pens, brush pens, highlighters). Related technologies such as ink delivery systems, nib designs, and writing point constructions fall within this classification, while electronic writing devices and digital input tools are typically excluded.

Filing statistics

IPC B43 recorded 79,038 patent applications worldwide between 2013 and 2023, summed across its 3 subclasses. Annual filings declined from 6,129 in 2013 to 4,751 in 2023 (-22%), peaking at 9,981 applications in 2020. The most active applicants in class B43 are PILOT CORPORATION (1,100 applications), MITSUBISHI PENCIL COMPANY (818 applications) and SOCIETE BIC (380 applications).

Source: EPO PATSTAT, worldwide filings