What is the meaning of “independent” and “distinct” in patent law?

In patent law, “independent” and “distinct” have specific meanings when referring to inventions: Independent: This term means inventions are unrelated or not dependent on each other. According to MPEP 802.01, “‘Independent’, of course, means not dependent, or unrelated.” Distinct: This term is used to describe inventions that, while potentially related, are separate and can be…

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What are the general terms used to describe patent applications?

The Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) outlines several general terms used to describe patent applications: National application Provisional application Nonprovisional application International application International design application Original application Continuing application Substitute application These terms are defined in various sections of 37 CFR 1.9 and further explained in MPEP § 201. To learn more: patent…

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