What is the difference between correcting inventorship at CPA filing and after CPA filing?

The process for correcting inventorship in a Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) differs depending on when the correction is requested: At CPA filing: Inventorship can be corrected by submitting a statement requesting deletion of a named inventor along with the CPA filing. This process is straightforward and does not require additional procedures. After CPA filing: The…

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What is the purpose of MPEP ¶ 2.32 in relation to Continued Prosecution Applications?

MPEP ¶ 2.32 provides guidance for patent examiners on how to respond to requests for deleting a named inventor in a Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) for design patents. The paragraph serves several purposes: It offers a template for examiners to acknowledge receipt of a statement requesting inventor deletion. It confirms that the inventorship has been…

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Why are amendments to refer to CPAs as continuation or divisional applications not allowed?

Amendments to refer to Continued Prosecution Applications (CPAs) as continuation or divisional applications are not allowed because they are unnecessary and can potentially cause confusion. The MPEP ¶ 2.34 explains: “As set forth in 37 CFR 1.53(d)(7), a request for a CPA is the specific reference required by 35 U.S.C. 120 to every application assigned…

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What is the copendency requirement for continuation applications?

What is the copendency requirement for continuation applications? The copendency requirement is a crucial aspect of filing a continuation application. According to MPEP 201.07: ‘The continuation application must be filed before the patenting or abandonment of or termination of proceedings on the prior application.’ This means that: The continuation application must be filed while the…

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What should patent examiners consider when determining if an application is a continuation?

Patent examiners should consider several factors when determining if an application may be a continuation. The MPEP ¶ 2.05 provides guidance: “This form paragraph should only be used if it appears that the application may be a continuation, but a benefit claim has not been properly established.” Examiners should look for: Disclosure of only subject…

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