What is the main difference between the best mode requirement and the enablement requirement in patent law?

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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. The main difference between the best mode requirement and the enablement requirement in patent law lies in their focus and scope: Best Mode Requirement: Focuses on the inventor’s subjective knowledge of the best way to carry out the invention at the time of filing. Enablement Requirement: Focuses on providing sufficient information for a person skilled in the art to make and use the invention without undue experimentation. As stated in MPEP 2165.02 : “The best mode requirement is a separate and distinct requirement from the enablement requirement of 35 U.S.C. 112(a) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, first paragraph.” Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Best Mode Requirement Not Triggered by Lack of Mode Description MPEP 2165.02 Best Mode Requirement for Applications Filed On Or After September 16, 2012 MPEP 2165 Best Mode Is Required Separately From Enablement MPEP 2165.02 Best Mode Must Be Disclosed MPEP 2165 Required Best Mode Must Be Disclosed MPEP 2165 Required Requirement for Best Mode Disclosure MPEP 2165 Required Invention's Best Mode Must Be Disclosed MPEP 2165 Required Best Mode Must Be Disclosed MPEP 2165 Best Mode Must Be Disclosed in Description MPEP 2165 Required Best Mode Must Be Disclosed Even If Not Discoverer MPEP 2165 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does the America Invents Act (AIA) affect the best mode requirement in patent law? What is the obligation imposed by the best mode requirement? How does the best mode requirement contribute to public disclosure in patent law? What is the difference between the best mode requirement and the enablement requirement? What happens if a patent application fails to set forth any mode of...