How do examiners handle undue multiplicity in patent applications?
Patent examiners handle undue multiplicity in patent applications through a specific procedure outlined in MPEP 2173.05(n): The examiner contacts the applicant by telephone, explaining that the claims are unduly multiplied. The examiner requests that the applicant select a specified number of claims for examination. If the applicant complies, the examiner makes an undue multiplicity rejection…
Read MoreHow are claims selected for reexamination in inter partes proceedings?
In inter partes reexamination, claims are selected for reexamination based on whether they raise a substantial new question of patentability (SNQ). The MPEP provides examples of this process: Claims 1 – 3 of the Key patent will be reexamined. … Accordingly, claim 4 will not be reexamined. … Finally, reexamination has not been requested for…
Read MoreHow are claims selected for printing in the Official Gazette?
Claims are selected for printing in the Official Gazette based on specific criteria outlined in the MPEP. The examiner records the selected claim number in the “PRINT CLAIM” box on the Issue Classification Sheet. The MPEP provides the following guidelines for claim selection: The broadest claim should be selected. Ordinarily, only one claim per invention…
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