Why are single means claims often rejected?

Single means claims are often rejected due to enablement issues under 35 U.S.C. 112(a). The MPEP explains: In re Hyatt, 708 F.2d 712, 714-715, 218 USPQ 195, 197 (Fed. Cir. 1983) (A single means claim which covered every conceivable means for achieving the stated purpose was held nonenabling for the scope of the claim because…

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What is a single means claim?

A single means claim is a patent claim where a means recitation (a claim element described in terms of its function rather than its structure) appears alone, without being combined with another recited element of means. According to the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP), A single means claim, i.e., where a means recitation does…

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What is the significance of “transitional phrases” in patent claim construction?

Transitional phrases play a crucial role in patent claim construction by defining the scope of the claimed invention. According to MPEP 2111.03, transitional phrases “define the scope of a claim with respect to what unrecited additional components or steps, if any, are excluded from the scope of the claim.” The significance of transitional phrases includes:…

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What is the significance of the ‘the’ vs. ‘a’ or ‘an’ in patent claim language?

What is the significance of the ‘the’ vs. ‘a’ or ‘an’ in patent claim language? The use of ‘the’ versus ‘a’ or ‘an’ in patent claim language is significant for establishing proper antecedent basis. According to MPEP 2173.05(e): “Obviously, however, the failure to provide explicit antecedent basis for terms does not always render a claim…

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What is the significance of “inherency” in patent claims?

What is the significance of “inherency” in patent claims? The concept of “inherency” in patent claims is significant because it allows for the inclusion of certain characteristics or properties that are not explicitly stated in the original disclosure but are necessarily present in the invention. As stated in MPEP 2163.07(a): “By disclosing in a patent…

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What is the significance of including the status of each claim in the Official Gazette notice for an inter partes reexamination certificate?

Including the status of each claim in the Official Gazette notice for an inter partes reexamination certificate is significant because it provides a comprehensive overview of the reexamination’s outcome. According to MPEP 2691: “The Official Gazette notice will include […] an indication of the status of each claim after the conclusion of the reexamination proceeding.”…

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When is a claim’s eligibility considered self-evident?

A claim’s eligibility is considered self-evident when it clearly does not attempt to monopolize a judicial exception. The MPEP 2106.06(a) states: “Such claims do not need to proceed through the full analysis herein as their eligibility will be self-evident.” Examples of self-evident eligibility include: Complex manufactured industrial products or processes with meaningful limitations Claims that…

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What is the scope of the USPTO’s determination in a supplemental examination request?

The scope of the USPTO’s determination in a supplemental examination request is generally limited to the specific items of information and claims identified in the request. According to MPEP 2816: “The determination of whether such an item of information raises a SNQ will generally be limited to a review of the item(s) of information identified…

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