What is the purpose of unity of invention analysis in patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 10 Rules 4 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 unity of invention analysis is used to determine whether the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) may require restriction in national stage applications submitted under 35 U.S.C. 371 . This analysis is specific to applications filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). The purpose of unity of invention analysis is to ensure that a single international application or national stage application contains only a single inventive concept. This helps to: Streamline the examination process Ensure fair payment of fees for multiple inventions Maintain the integrity of the patent system by preventing overly broad patent protection As mentioned in MPEP 823 , the unity of invention analysis is distinct from the independent and distinct analysis used for national applications filed under 35 U.S.C. 111(a). Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Differences in Unity of Invention Analysis for National Stage Applications Under 35 U.S.C. 371 vs 111(a) MPEP 823 Permitted Lack of Unity in National Stage Applications MPEP 1850 Publication Required for National Stage Applications MPEP 1803 Use of Priority Document in National Application MPEP 1828 Documents and Fees for National Stage Entry Required MPEP 1893.01 Required Online Filing for National Stage Items Is Preferred MPEP 1893.01(a)(1) Required Withdrawal of National Stage Applications for Noncompliance MPEP 1002.02(p) Provisional Reference Required for National Stage MPEP 1481.03 Required Requirement for National Stage Entry Within 30 Months MPEP 1801 Required Time Limits for National Stage Entry After PCT MPEP 1801 Permitted Other Related FAQs 4 FAQs Collapse Do the guidelines for other substantive and p...