How are drawings handled during patent application allowance?
Handling drawings during patent application allowance is an important part of the process. The MPEP 1302.05 provides specific guidance:
“Where formal drawings are required and the Office has approved informal drawings, the examiner should ensure that the drawings are labeled “INFORMAL” in red ink on the drawings. One set of drawings should be used as the informal drawings and the other as the formal drawings. Formal drawings must be submitted within the three-month period set in the Notice of Allowability.”
Key points about handling drawings during allowance include:
- Informal drawings are labeled “INFORMAL” in red ink
- Two sets of drawings are typically involved: informal and formal
- Formal drawings must be submitted within three months of the Notice of Allowability
- The examiner should ensure that all necessary drawings are present and properly labeled
Proper handling of drawings is crucial for the completeness and clarity of the patent application as it moves towards issuance.
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