How are supplemental examination requests assigned to specific art units?
Supplemental examination requests are assigned to specific art units within the Central Reexamination Unit (CRU) based on the technology area of the patent. According to the MPEP, The CRU art unit which examines the technology (Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, etc.) in which the patent to be examined is currently classified as an original patent, will be assigned the supplemental examination request.
This means that the assignment is made to the art unit that specializes in the technology relevant to the patent under supplemental examination.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2800 - Supplemental Examination,
MPEP 2822 - Assignment Of The Supplemental Examination Proceeding,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure