What is the purpose of the Issue Classification sheet in patent examination?
The Issue Classification sheet serves several important purposes in the patent examination process: It provides a final classification of the allowed patent application. It serves as a record of the examiners involved in the allowance decision. It includes the E-Signatures of both the primary and assistant examiners, as stated in MPEP 1302.13: “The primary examiner…
Read MoreWhere does the primary examiner sign on the Issue Classification sheet?
According to MPEP 1302.13, the primary examiner has a specific location for signing on the Issue Classification sheet: “A primary examiner who prepares an application for issue signs the file wrapper only in the “Primary Examiner” box on the Issue Classification sheet.” This designated box ensures clarity and consistency in the signing process, making it…
Read MoreWhat is the significance of the Issue Classification sheet in patent examination?
The Issue Classification sheet plays a crucial role in patent examination by providing a standardized way to categorize and organize patent documents. According to MPEP 1302.10, the Issue Classification sheet: The Issue Classification sheet is automatically populated with the Cooperative Patent Classification symbols applied to a family of documents (continuations, divisionals, and/or foreign documents in…
Read MoreWhat is the significance of the Issue Classification sheet in the patent allowance process?
The Issue Classification sheet plays a crucial role in the patent allowance process. According to MPEP 1303: “The examiner completes the Issue Classification sheet (PTO-101, form paragraph 13.03) and attaches it to the Notice of Allowability (PTOL-37). The applicant may be required to furnish sheet sizes, sheet numbers and numbers of views on Form PTO-103,…
Read MoreWhose names appear on the printed patent?
The MPEP 1302.13 provides clear guidance on whose names are included in the printed patent: “Only the names of the primary examiner and the assistant examiner appearing on the Issue Classification Sheet will be listed in the printed patent.” This means that while other USPTO personnel may be involved in the patent examination process, only…
Read MoreHow are design and plant applications classified at allowance?
Design and plant applications are classified differently from utility applications at allowance. According to the MPEP, Only U.S. design and plant patents and U.S. plant patent application publications continue to receive classifications within the USPC. The primary examiner is responsible for reviewing the original classification and cross-referencing on the Issue Classification sheet. The MPEP states:…
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