What is a “Printer Rush” in patent examination?

A “Printer Rush” occurs when issues need to be addressed after a patent application has been allowed but before it can be published. As stated in MPEP 1309.02: “A printer rush occurs when document(s) need to be addressed after a patent application has been allowed. The file is returned to the examiner, a ‘Printer Rush’…

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What is the difference between a “Printer Rush – No mailing” action and other Office Actions?

A “Printer Rush – No mailing” action is a specific type of action taken by patent examiners when addressing Printer Rush cases that don’t require communication with the applicant. According to MPEP 1309.02: “If correction does not require mailing of an Office Action, the examiner creates an action entitled ‘Printer Rush – No mailing’ and…

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What issues can trigger a Printer Rush in patent applications?

Several issues can trigger a Printer Rush in patent applications after they have been allowed. According to MPEP 1309.02: “Issues which may prevent publication until they are resolved include but are not limited to: amendments under 37 CFR 1.312, a Request for Correction of Inventorship under 37 CFR 1.48 and Information Disclosure Statements which have…

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What role do Information Disclosure Statements (IDS) play in Printer Rush cases?

Information Disclosure Statements (IDS) can play a significant role in Printer Rush cases, particularly when they haven’t been properly processed. According to MPEP 1309.02: “Issues which may prevent publication until they are resolved include but are not limited to: … Information Disclosure Statements which have not been initialed by the examiner.” An IDS that hasn’t…

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How do patent examiners handle Printer Rush cases?

Patent examiners handle Printer Rush cases with high priority. According to MPEP 1309.02: “These applications are placed on the examiner’s ‘expedited’ tab in Docket Application Viewer (DAV) and should be taken up for immediate action.” The process typically involves: Reviewing the “RUSH” document in the Image File Wrapper (IFW) Annotating the “RUSH” document to indicate…

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How does a Request for Correction of Inventorship affect the patent publication process?

A Request for Correction of Inventorship can significantly impact the patent publication process by triggering a Printer Rush. According to MPEP 1309.02: “Issues which may prevent publication until they are resolved include but are not limited to: … a Request for Correction of Inventorship under 37 CFR 1.48…” When such a request is filed after…

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What takes precedence over special cases in patent examination?

According to MPEP 708.01, certain procedures take precedence over actions on special cases: Completion and mailing of all papers typed and ready for signature Processing of ‘Printer Rush’ cases within the indicated period Reissue applications, particularly those involved in stayed litigation Applications with set time limits, such as examiner’s answers due within 2 months after…

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