How does the “single means claim” relate to the enablement requirement?
The “single means claim” is closely related to the enablement requirement in patent law. According to MPEP 2164.08(a):
“Such claims are subject to rejection under 35 U.S.C. 112(a) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, first paragraph, because the claim language is often not commensurate in scope with the enablement disclosure in the specification.”
This means that a single means claim typically fails to meet the enablement requirement because it claims more than what is actually enabled by the patent specification. The broad nature of such claims often extends beyond what the inventor has actually invented and described in sufficient detail.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2100 - Patentability,
MPEP 2164.08(A) - Single Means Claim,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure