Can suppression or concealment be attributed to someone other than the inventor?
Yes, suppression or concealment can be attributed to parties other than the inventor, such as an employer or assignee. The MPEP states: “Suppression or concealment need not be attributed to the inventor.” For example, if an employer delays filing a patent application for an unreasonably long time, this could potentially lead to a finding of…
Read MoreHow does delay in filing a patent application affect suppression or concealment?
The delay in filing a patent application can potentially lead to an inference of suppression or concealment, especially in interference proceedings. However, the MPEP clarifies: “Once an invention is actually reduced to practice an inventor need not rush to file a patent application. […] The length of time taken to file a patent application after…
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