What are the limitations on content in a 37 CFR 1.501 submission?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 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. A 37 CFR 1.501 submission has specific limitations on its content, as outlined in MPEP 2205 . The submission is restricted to: Patents Printed publications Patent owner written claim scope statements Additional information and explanations of pertinency and applicability The MPEP states: “ The submission cannot include any issue which is not directed to patents, printed publications or written claim scope statements and additional information. “ Specifically, a submission cannot include: Statements about claims violating 35 U.S.C. 112 Statements about public use of the claimed invention Statements about the conduct of the patent owner Arguments or discussions of references previously treated in the prosecution of the application or in a reexamination proceeding If a submission contains any issues not directed to the allowed content, it should not be entered into the patent file and may be returned, discarded, or closed as described in MPEP § 2206. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Written Claim Scope Statements Required for Prior Art MPEP 2205 Permitted Identification of Patent Owner Claim Scope Statements Required MPEP 2205 Required Copies of Section 301 Written Statements Required for Patent Files Inspection MPEP 2205 Required Identification of Patent Owner Claim Scope Statements Required MPEP 2205 Required Requirement for Non-Patent Issues Not to Be Entered MPEP 2205 Recommended Explanation of Cited Prior Art and Written Statements Must Be Provided MPEP 2205 Required References Not Previously Treated In Prosecution Prohibited MPEP 2205 Recommended Requirement for Patent Owner Claim Scope Statement in Proceeding MPEP 2205 Permitted Explanation of...