Are internal company documents considered “printed publications”?
Generally, internal company documents are not considered “printed publications” if they are intended to remain confidential. The MPEP 2128.01 states: “Documents and items only distributed internally within an organization which are intended to remain confidential are not ‘printed publications’ no matter how many copies are distributed.” However, it’s important to note that there must be…
Read MoreWhat is the significance of the “effective filing date” in relation to printed publications under MPEP 2152.02(b)?
The “effective filing date” plays a crucial role in determining whether a printed publication qualifies as prior art under MPEP 2152.02(b). The manual states: “AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(1) uses the term ‘described in a printed publication’ while pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102(a) and (b) use the term ‘described in a printed publication.’ However, both the pre-AIA…
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