What happens if the best mode is not disclosed in the original patent application?
If the best mode contemplated by the inventor at the time of filing is not disclosed in the original patent application, this defect cannot be cured by later amendments. The MPEP 2165.01 states:
“If the best mode contemplated by the inventor at the time of filing the application is not disclosed, such a defect cannot be cured by submitting an amendment seeking to put into the specification something required to be there when the patent application was originally filed. In re Hay, 534 F.2d 917, 189 USPQ 790 (CCPA 1976).”
Furthermore, the MPEP advises:
“Any proposed amendment of this type (adding a specific mode of practicing the invention not described in the application as filed) should be treated as new matter. New matter under 35 U.S.C. 132 and 251 should be objected to and coupled with a requirement to cancel the new matter.”
This means that failing to disclose the best mode at the time of filing can be a serious issue that cannot be rectified later, potentially affecting the validity of the patent.
To learn more: