How are new design and plant patent applications initially processed?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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. New nonprovisional design and plant patent applications are initially processed by the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) and then assigned to specific Technology Centers (TCs). According to MPEP 909.02(a) : “New nonprovisional design and plant applications are assigned to Technology Centers (TCs) 2900 and 1600, respectively, in the first instance by the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP).” This means that design patent applications are directed to TC 2900, while plant patent applications are sent to TC 1600 for further examination. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Application Must Be Fully Classified on Receipt MPEP 909.01(b) Required Classifications Required for Examiner Assignment MPEP 909.01(b) Permitted Provisional Applications Not Classified or Assigned MPEP 909.01(b) Patent Applications with National Security Concerns Must Not Be Published MPEP 101 Required Provisional Applications in Foreign Languages Must Be Screened MPEP 115 National Security Classified Patent Application Must Be Declassified Before Publication and Allowance MPEP 120 Types of Secrecy Orders for Patent Applications MPEP 120 Type II Secrecy Order for Patent Applications with Classified Data MPEP 120 Disclosure Allowed for Classifiable Patent Applications MPEP 120 Type I Secrecy Order for Patent Applications MPEP 120 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How are new design and plant patent applications initially assigned? What is the role of the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) in handling new design and plant patent applications? Which Technology Center handles design patent applications? What is the Technology Center responsible for plan...