Can a design patent application include a characteristic feature statement?
Yes, a design patent application can include a characteristic feature statement. According to MPEP 1503.01:
“A characteristic feature statement may be included in the specification. Such a statement could be used, for example, to describe a feature of the design that is considered by the applicant to be a feature of novelty or non-obviousness over the prior art.”
Key points about characteristic feature statements:
- They are optional and not required for all design patent applications.
- They can highlight unique or novel aspects of the design.
- The statement should be brief and to the point.
- It should not include a detailed description of the entire design.
Example: “The characteristic feature of the design resides in the curved backrest as shown in the drawings.”
To learn more: