What is the “broadest reasonable interpretation” approach in patent searching?
The “broadest reasonable interpretation” approach in patent searching refers to the strategy of interpreting claim language broadly when conducting a prior art search. According to MPEP 904.03:
“The search should cover the claimed subject matter and should also cover the disclosed features which might reasonably be expected to be claimed.”
This approach ensures that examiners consider a wide range of potentially relevant prior art, not just documents that match the exact claim language. It helps to identify art that might be applicable under various claim interpretations and potential amendments.
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