What is the examiner’s role in reviewing patent application drawings?

The examiner plays a crucial role in ensuring the completeness and consistency of patent application drawings. According to MPEP 608.02(e), the examiner should:

  • Ensure figures are correctly described in the brief description of the drawings section
  • Verify reference characters are properly applied
  • Check that no single reference character is used for two different parts or for a given part and its modification
  • Confirm there are no superfluous illustrations

The examiner may use specific form paragraphs to require corrections if any issues are identified.

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Topics: Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: Drawing Consistency, Examiner Review, patent drawings, Reference Characters