How does a plant patent application differ from other types of patent applications?

While plant patent applications share many similarities with other types of patent applications, there are some key differences. The Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) § 1603 states: “An application for a plant patent consists of the same parts as other applications.“ However, plant patent applications have some unique requirements: Drawings must be submitted in…

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What information must be included about the location where a plant was discovered?

For newly discovered plants, the patent application must provide information about the location where the plant was found. According to MPEP 1605 and 37 CFR 1.163(a): “For a newly found plant, the specification must particularly point out the location and character of the area where the plant was discovered.” Key points to include: Specific location…

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Can there be joint inventors for a plant patent?

Yes, plant patent applications can have joint inventors. This is explicitly stated in MPEP 1604: In an application for a plant patent, there can be joint inventors. This statement is supported by the case Ex parte Kluis, 70 USPQ 165 (Bd. App. 1945), which established this precedent. To learn more: plant patent joint inventors multiple…

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Do plant patent applications require duplicate drawings?

Yes, plant patent applications require duplicate drawings. According to 37 CFR 1.163(b), one of the elements that should appear in a plant patent application is: “(5) Drawings (in duplicate).“ This requirement for duplicate drawings is specific to plant patent applications and differs from utility patent applications. The duplicate drawings help ensure that the unique characteristics…

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Can a Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) be filed for utility or plant patent applications?

Can a Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) be filed for utility or plant patent applications? No, a Continued Prosecution Application (CPA) cannot be filed for utility or plant patent applications. According to MPEP 201.06(d): ‘Effective July 14, 2003, CPAs are only available for design applications.’ This means that CPAs are exclusively for design patent applications. For…

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