What is considered “patented” under AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1)?
Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30
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.
Under AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1), “patented” refers to a prior patent that discloses the claimed invention before the effective filing date of the current application. The MPEP states:
“AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1) indicates that a prior patent of a claimed invention will preclude the grant of a subsequent patent on the claimed invention.”
This means that if an invention was patented in the U.S. or a foreign country before the effective filing date of the claimed invention, it can prevent the grant of a new patent on that invention.
Topics:
MPEP 2100 - Patentability
MPEP 2152.02(A) - Patented
Patent Law
Patent Procedure