How can applicants overcome a rejection due to unclear use of coloring in international design applications?

When coloring in international design application drawings is not described in the specification, it can lead to a rejection under 35 U.S.C. 112(b) for indefiniteness. To overcome this rejection, applicants can insert a statement in the specification explaining the purpose of the coloring. The MPEP provides the following guidance: “If the coloring identifies matter for…

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How can applicants indicate matter not sought for protection in international design applications?

In international design applications, applicants can indicate matter shown in a reproduction for which protection is not sought using two methods, as per Administrative Instruction 403: In the description referred to in Rule 7(5)(a) By means of dotted or broken lines or coloring The MPEP advises: “When using broken or dotted lines or coloring in…

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How are broken lines or coloring used in international design application drawings?

Broken lines and coloring in international design application drawings are used to indicate portions of the design for which protection is not sought. As stated in MPEP 2920.04(a): “Administrative Instruction 403 permits matter shown in a reproduction for which protection is not sought to be indicated in the description and/or by means of broken or…

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