What is the “plain meaning” of a claim term?
The “plain meaning” of a claim term refers to the ordinary and customary meaning given to the term by those of ordinary skill in the art at the relevant time. As stated in the MPEP, “[T]he ordinary and customary meaning of a claim term is the meaning that the term would have to a person…
Read MoreHow is the plain meaning of claim terms determined in patent examination?
The plain meaning of claim terms is crucial in patent examination. According to MPEP 2173.01: “Under a broadest reasonable interpretation, words of the claim must be given their plain meaning, unless such meaning is inconsistent with the specification. The plain meaning of a term means the ordinary and customary meaning given to the term by…
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