How does the USPTO define “separately usable” in the context of subcombinations?

The USPTO defines “separately usable” in the context of subcombinations as follows: According to MPEP 806.05(d), “The burden is on the examiner to provide an example to support the determination that the inventions are distinct, but the example need not be documented.” The MPEP further clarifies: “A subcombination is separately usable if it has utility…

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