What happens to Information Disclosure Statements (IDS) when filing a CPA?

When filing a Continued Prosecution Application (CPA), previously filed Information Disclosure Statements (IDS) are handled as follows: All IDSs filed in the prior application that comply with 37 CFR 1.98 are automatically considered in the CPA No specific request is needed for the examiner to consider the previously submitted information New IDSs can be filed…

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How does a CPA affect benefit claims under 35 U.S.C. 120?

A Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) automatically maintains the benefit claim to the prior application under 35 U.S.C. 120 without requiring a separate statement. Key points include: The CPA request itself serves as the specific reference required by 35 U.S.C. 120 No amendment to the specification or application data sheet is needed to maintain the benefit…

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Can the inventorship be changed when filing a CPA?

The inventorship in a Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) generally remains the same as in the prior application, but it can be changed under certain circumstances: The inventorship automatically carries over from the prior application unless a statement is filed requesting deletion of inventors Inventors can be deleted by filing a statement with the CPA request…

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What is the difference between 37 CFR 1.53(b) and 37 CFR 1.53(d) applications regarding affidavits?

The treatment of affidavits and declarations differs between applications filed under 37 CFR 1.53(b) and those filed under 37 CFR 1.53(d): 37 CFR 1.53(b) applications: Affidavits and declarations from prior applications do not automatically become part of the new application. 37 CFR 1.53(d) applications: Affidavits and declarations filed during the prosecution of the parent nonprovisional…

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What are the main types of patent applications in the United States?

There are several types of patent applications in the United States: Nonprovisional applications filed under 35 U.S.C. 111(a), including utility, plant, and design patent applications Provisional applications filed under 35 U.S.C. 111(b) International applications filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) International design applications filed under the Hague Agreement The MPEP states: Applications filed under…

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What is a design patent application and how does it differ from a utility patent application?

Design patent applications and utility patent applications are two distinct types of patent applications that protect different aspects of inventions. According to MPEP 201: Design Patent Application: “An application for a design patent filed under 35 U.S.C. 171 may be referred to as a design application.” Design patents protect the ornamental appearance of an article…

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What happens if an applicant fails to respond to a request for a property rights statement?

If an applicant fails to respond to a request for a property rights statement, there can be serious consequences for the patent application. According to MPEP 150: If no proper and timely statement is received, the application will be held abandoned and the applicant so notified. The process typically involves: An initial informal request (45-Day…

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