How does the MPEP address the issue of hidden features in design patent anticipation?
The MPEP addresses hidden features in design patent anticipation similarly to functional features. According to MPEP 1504.02: When a claim is rejected under 35 U.S.C. 102 as being unpatentable over prior art, those features of the design which are functional and/or hidden during end use may not be relied upon to support patentability. This means…
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