What is a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” and how should it be submitted?
A “Computer Program Listing Appendix” is a document that lists the instructions, routines, and other contents of a program for a computer. It should be submitted as an ASCII plain text file via the USPTO patent electronic filing system or on read-only optical disc if it exceeds 300 lines of code. As stated in MPEP…
Read MoreWhat are the requirements for submitting a “Computer Program Listing Appendix” in a patent application?
A “Computer Program Listing Appendix” must be submitted as an ASCII plain text file via the USPTO patent electronic filing system or on read-only optical discs if it exceeds 300 lines of code. The appendix must comply with the following requirements as per 37 CFR 1.96(c): Must be compatible with PC or Mac computers and…
Read MoreHow should the page header for a computer program listing appendix be formatted?
The page header for a computer program listing appendix must follow specific formatting guidelines. According to MPEP 608.05(a): “The page header must start on the first line of the computer program listing appendix and should include: Applicant’s name Application Number (if known) Title of Invention Software language used Operating system used Line numbering if present…
Read MoreWhat are the formatting requirements for a computer program listing appendix?
According to MPEP 608.05(a), a computer program listing appendix must meet specific formatting requirements: ASCII text file format No more than 72 characters per line No more than 60 lines per page Must begin with a page header The MPEP states: “A computer program listing appendix shall be submitted as a text file in ASCII…
Read MoreWhat are the file size limitations for a computer program listing appendix?
The MPEP 608.05(a) specifies file size limitations for computer program listing appendices: “A computer program listing appendix must be limited to a total of 300 printed pages (using USPTO page printing parameters of 360 lines per page at 72 characters per line) whether submitted as ASCII text files or XML files.“ Additionally, the MPEP states:…
Read MoreWhat are the requirements for submitting a computer program listing appendix on compact disc?
When submitting a computer program listing appendix on compact disc, the following requirements must be met: The compact disc must be in read-only (CD-ROM) format. A statement must be included in the specification describing the material on the compact disc and its relationship to the application. The material on the compact disc must be incorporated…
Read MoreWhat constitutes a complete reply to a restriction requirement?
A complete reply to a restriction requirement must include two key elements: An election: The applicant must choose one of the inventions or species identified in the restriction requirement. A listing of all claims readable on the elected invention: The applicant must identify which claims encompass the chosen invention or species. MPEP 818.01(a) states: “As…
Read MoreWhat constitutes a complete reply to an Election of Species requirement?
A complete reply to an Election of Species requirement must include specific elements as outlined in MPEP 809.02(a): “To be complete, a reply to a requirement made according to this section should include a proper election along with a listing of all claims readable thereon, including any claims subsequently added.” Specifically, a complete reply should…
Read MoreCan an applicant claim additional species in the same application when generic claims are allowable?
Yes, an applicant can claim additional species in the same application when generic claims are allowable. The MPEP explicitly states: “Where generic claims are allowable, applicant may claim in the same application additional species as provided by 37 CFR 1.141.” This provision allows applicants to broaden the scope of their patent protection by including additional…
Read MoreHow do I claim priority to a foreign application in a U.S. patent application?
To claim priority to a foreign application in a U.S. patent application, you must follow the guidelines outlined in MPEP § 214. The process generally involves: Filing the U.S. application within 12 months of the foreign filing date Submitting a claim for priority in an application data sheet (ADS) or in the first sentence of…
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