What is the relationship between 35 U.S.C. 112(a) and (b)?
The requirements of 35 U.S.C. 112(a) and (b) are separate and distinct. As stated in the MPEP 2174: “The requirements of 35 U.S.C. 112(a) and (b) or the first and second paragraphs of pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112 are separate and distinct.” This means that a patent application must satisfy both requirements independently.
To learn more:
Topics:
First And Second Paragraphs,
MPEP 2100 - Patentability,
MPEP 2174 - Relationship Between The Requirements Of 35 U.S.C. 112(A) And (B) Or Pre - Aia 35 U.S.C. 112,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure