SIGNALLING

Description

G08 encompasses signalling systems and apparatus for transmitting, receiving, or indicating signals for control, alarm, or communication purposes. This class covers a broad range of technologies including burglar and fire alarms, traffic control signals, level indicators, weighing devices with signalling functions, and telemetering systems. The classification includes both the signalling equipment itself and the associated transmission mechanisms (electrical, mechanical, or optical), but excludes telecommunications systems and broadcasting covered by H classes and specific signalling applications in railway, maritime, or aviation contexts covered under their respective domain classes.

Filing statistics

IPC G08 recorded 627,665 patent applications worldwide between 2013 and 2023, summed across its 3 subclasses. Annual filings grew from 32,032 in 2013 to 59,711 in 2023 (+86%), peaking at 79,311 applications in 2020. The most active applicants in class G08 are TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (6,781 applications), SGCC(STATE GRID CORPORATION OF CHINA) (5,954 applications) and ROBERT BOSCH (3,656 applications).

Source: EPO PATSTAT, worldwide filings