How can I convert a provisional patent application to a nonprovisional application?

The USPTO allows for the conversion of a provisional patent application to a nonprovisional application under specific circumstances. The MPEP states: “Requests to convert a provisional application filed under 37 CFR 1.53(c) to a nonprovisional application under 37 CFR 1.53(b) where the provisional application is before the Office of Patent Application Processing.“ This conversion process…

Read More

Can a nonprovisional patent application be converted to a provisional application?

Yes, it is possible to convert a nonprovisional patent application to a provisional application under certain circumstances. The MPEP states: “Petitions to convert a nonprovisional application filed under 37 CFR 1.53(b) to a provisional application under 37 CFR 1.53(c) where the nonprovisional application is before the Office of Initial Patent Examination or where the nonprovisional…

Read More

How can an attorney or agent withdraw from a patent application before the Office of Patent Application Processing?

An attorney or agent can withdraw from representing a client in a patent application before the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) by submitting a petition. The MPEP states: “Petitions for the withdrawal of attorney or agent of record under 37 CFR 1.36 in patent applications involved in proceedings before the Office of Patent Application…

Read More

What is the purpose of OPAP’s drawing review in patent applications?

The Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) performs an initial review of drawings in new utility and plant patent applications to determine whether the drawings can be effectively scanned for publication purposes. As stated in the MPEP: “OPAP inspects the drawings to see if they can be effectively scanned and adequately reproduced.” This review ensures…

Read More

How does the USPTO handle informal drawings in patent applications?

The USPTO handles informal drawings in patent applications as follows: If the drawings are informal but otherwise sufficient for examination, the USPTO will accept them provisionally. The drawings will be approved by the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) for publication purposes. Formal drawings will be required if the application is allowed. According to MPEP…

Read More

What is the purpose of the PTO-948 form in patent applications?

The PTO-948 form, also known as the ‘Drawing Informalities’ form, serves the following purposes in patent applications: It is used by the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) to indicate that the drawings submitted with the application are informal but acceptable for publication purposes. It notifies the examiner that the drawings may need to be…

Read More