What is the significance of “at the time of the invention” in equivalence determinations?
What is the significance of “at the time of the invention” in equivalence determinations? The phrase “at the time of the invention” is crucial in equivalence determinations during patent examination. The MPEP emphasizes this temporal aspect: “[T]he examiner must … determine whether the assertedly equivalent element in the prior art or a reference would have…
Read MoreHow does the USPTO avoid hindsight bias in obviousness determinations?
The USPTO recognizes the challenge of avoiding hindsight bias in obviousness determinations. The MPEP acknowledges: “The tendency to resort to ‘hindsight’ based upon applicant’s disclosure is often difficult to avoid due to the very nature of the examination process. However, impermissible hindsight must be avoided and the legal conclusion must be reached on the basis…
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