What are the requirements for an application to be published under the 18-month rule?

For an application to be published under the 18-month rule, it must meet certain requirements as outlined in 37 CFR 1.211(c). The application must include: The basic filing fee An English translation (if the application is in a language other than English) The Office may delay publication until the application includes: Any required application size…

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When did the American Inventors Protection Act (AIPA) come into effect and how did it change patent application publication?

The American Inventors Protection Act (AIPA) was enacted on November 29, 1999, and it significantly changed the publication rules for patent applications. According to MPEP 901.03: “The AIPA amended 35 U.S.C. 122 to provide that, with certain exceptions, applications for patent filed on or after November 29, 2000 shall be published promptly after the expiration…

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What is the 18-month publication rule for patent applications?

The 18-month publication rule, as specified in 35 U.S.C. 122(b), requires that most patent applications be published 18 months after their earliest filing date. Specifically, the law states: “Subject to paragraph (2), each application for a patent shall be published, in accordance with procedures determined by the Director, promptly after the expiration of a period…

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