How are drawings handled in national stage applications?
The handling of drawings in national stage applications is governed by PCT Rule 11 and U.S. drawing requirements. The MPEP states, “The USPTO may not impose drawing requirements during the examination of a national stage application beyond those imposed by the Patent Cooperation Treaty (e.g., PCT Rule 11).” However, the examiner can require new drawings if the published drawings did not meet all PCT requirements. Applicants may file amended drawings in accordance with 37 CFR 1.84 and 1.121(d) during the national stage, including replacing black and white drawings with color drawings if accompanied by a grantable petition.
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