Can claims in a PCT application refer to the description or drawings?
According to MPEP 1824, claims in a PCT application should generally avoid referring to the description or drawings. However, there are some exceptions:
- References to the description or drawings are allowed when absolutely necessary
- Technical features in claims can be followed by reference signs relating to drawings
- Reference signs should preferably be placed between parentheses
The MPEP cites PCT Rule 6.2, which states: “Claims shall not, except where absolutely necessary, rely, in respect of the technical features of the invention, on references to the description or drawings. In particular, they shall not rely on such references as: ‘as described in part … of the description,’ or ‘as illustrated in figure … of the drawings.’“
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