What is the strongest rationale for combining references in an obviousness rejection?
The MPEP provides guidance on the strongest rationale for combining references in an obviousness rejection. It states, “The strongest rationale for combining references is a recognition, expressly or impliedly in the prior art or drawn from a convincing line of reasoning based on established scientific principles or legal precedent, that some advantage or expected beneficial…
Read MoreWhat are laws of nature and natural phenomena in patent law?
Laws of nature and natural phenomena, as identified by the courts, include naturally occurring principles/relations and nature-based products that are naturally occurring or that do not have markedly different characteristics compared to what occurs in nature. The Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) Section 2106.04(b) states: “The law of nature and natural phenomenon exceptions reflect…
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