What is the purpose of a count in an interference proceeding?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. The purpose of a count in an interference proceeding is to define the scope of the interfering subject matter between competing parties. According to MPEP 2304.02(b) : “A count defines the interfering subject matter between two or more applications or between one or more applications and one or more patents.” The count serves as a basis for determining priority of invention and helps focus the proceedings on the specific subject matter in dispute. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Requirement for Interference Suggestion with Claims MPEP 2304.02(b) Required Claims Must Correspond to Interfering Counts MPEP 2304.02(b) Claim Comparison Chart for Interference Counts Required MPEP 2304.02(b) Requirement for Count Description in Interference MPEP 2304.02(b) Permitted Interference Suggestion Can Come From Applicant Or Examiner MPEP 2304 Permitted Who Suggests Interference Determines Pre-Interference Actions MPEP 2304 Required Consult IPS Before Declaring Interference MPEP 2304 Required Patentable Claim Must Be Identified For Each Count MPEP 2304.02(b) Required Claim Chart Required for Patentable Claims MPEP 2304.02(b) Required Examiner Must Confirm Patentable Claims, Not Agree with Applicant’s Suggestion MPEP 2304.02(b) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is a count in patent interference proceedings? What is the role of an examiner in formulating counts for an interference? What is the examiner&#8217;s role in patent interference proceedings? How are corresponding claims identified in an interference proceeding? What is the purpose of a claim chart in patent interference proceedings?