What is the “single means claim” in patent law?
A “single means claim” in patent law refers to a claim that recites a single element to perform a function without specifying any supporting structure or steps. The Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) 2164.08(a) states:
“A single means claim, i.e., where a means recitation does not appear in combination with another recited element of means, is subject to an enablement rejection under 35 U.S.C. 112(a) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, first paragraph.”
Such claims are generally considered to be overly broad and may not meet the enablement requirement of patent law.
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Topics:
MPEP 2100 - Patentability,
MPEP 2164.08(A) - Single Means Claim,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure