What is the definition of an ‘allowed’ application?

An ‘allowed’ application is a nonprovisional patent application that has been examined and determined to meet all statutory requirements. The Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) states: “An ‘allowed’ nonprovisional application or an application ‘in issue’ is one which has been examined and determined to meet all statutory requirements, and in which a notice of…

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What is an ‘amended’ nonprovisional patent application?

An ‘amended’ nonprovisional patent application is one that has undergone a specific process in the examination procedure. According to MPEP 203.03: An ‘amended’ nonprovisional application is one that having been acted on by the examiner, has in turn been acted on by the applicant in reply to the examiner’s action. In simpler terms, it means…

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What is a continuation application?

A continuation application is a type of patent application that discloses the same invention(s) as a previously filed, copending nonprovisional application, international application designating the United States, or international design application designating the United States. The MPEP states: “A continuation application is an application for the invention(s) disclosed in a prior-filed copending nonprovisional application, international…

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What is a Continued Prosecution Application (CPA)?

A Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) is a type of continuation or divisional application that can be filed under 37 CFR 1.53(d) for design applications. As stated in the MPEP, A continuation or divisional application filed under 37 CFR 1.53(d) is called a ‘Continued Prosecution Application’ (CPA). CPAs allow applicants to continue prosecution of a prior…

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What is a divisional application?

A divisional application is a later application for an independent or distinct invention, carved out of a nonprovisional application. It discloses and claims only subject matter disclosed in the earlier or parent application. As stated in MPEP 201.06: A later application for an independent or distinct invention, carved out of a nonprovisional application (including a…

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What is Electronic Priority Document Exchange (PDX)?

Electronic Priority Document Exchange (PDX) is a system that allows for the electronic transmission of priority documents between participating foreign intellectual property offices. As stated in MPEP 215.01: Electronic Priority Document Exchange (PDX) agreements provide for the electronic transmission of priority documents to and from participating foreign intellectual property offices. This system streamlines the process…

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