Can a patent examiner request clarification on means-plus-function claim limitations?
Yes, a patent examiner can request clarification on means-plus-function claim limitations. According to MPEP 704.11(a), an examiner may reasonably require: “(R) Clarification of the correlation and identification of what structure, material, or acts set forth in the specification would be capable of carrying out a function recited in a means or steps plus function claim…
Read MoreWhat are the requirements for prioritized examination?
Prioritized examination, as outlined in 37 CFR 1.102(e) and MPEP 708.01, has specific requirements: Payment of prioritized examination fee, processing fee, and publication fee (if not already paid) Application must not contain or be amended to contain more than 4 independent claims, 30 total claims, or any multiple dependent claims For utility applications, must be…
Read MoreHow should a dependent claim be written to properly incorporate limitations from its parent claim?
How should a dependent claim be written to properly incorporate limitations from its parent claim? To properly incorporate limitations from a parent claim, a dependent claim should be written following these guidelines: Reference the parent claim: Begin the dependent claim by referring to the parent claim by number (e.g., “The device of claim 1, wherein…”).…
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