Which Technology Center handles design patent applications?
Design patent applications are handled by Technology Center (TC) 2900 at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). As stated in MPEP 909.02(a): “New nonprovisional design and plant applications are assigned to Technology Centers (TCs) 2900 and 1600, respectively, in the first instance by the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP).” This assignment to…
Read MoreWhat should an examiner do if they believe an application is improperly assigned to their docket?
If an examiner believes an application is improperly assigned to their docket, they should: Send an email to the TC 2900 docketing POC for evaluation of the application. If deemed improper, the application will be removed from the examiner’s docket and appropriately reassigned. If deemed proper after reevaluation, the case will be returned to the…
Read MoreWhat happens if there’s a dispute over the classification of a design application?
When there’s a dispute over the classification of a design application in the USPTO, the following process is followed: Examiners attempt to reach an agreement on the classification and assignment. If no agreement is reached, the transfer request is forwarded to the supervisors of the originating and receiving examiners. If supervisors can’t agree, the request…
Read MoreWhat is Technology Center 2900 at the USPTO?
Technology Center 2900 at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is specifically focused on design patents. It plays a crucial role in examining and processing design patent applications. As mentioned in MPEP § 1002.02(c)(3), the Director of Technology Center 2900 has specific authorities related to design patents: “Authority to decide the following requests…
Read MoreWhat authority does the Director of Technology Center 2900 have in design patent applications?
The Director of Technology Center 2900 has specific authority delegated for design patent applications, in addition to the general authorities given to all Technology Center Directors. Specifically, the Director of TC 2900 can decide on: Requests for expedited examination of design applications under 37 CFR 1.155, as outlined in MPEP § 1504.30. As stated in…
Read MoreWho decides on petitions and requests related to design patent applications?
Petitions and requests related to design patent applications are primarily decided by the Director of Technology Center 2900 at the USPTO. This authority is specifically outlined in MPEP § 1002.02(c)(3): “In addition to the items delegated to all Technology Center Directors under MPEP § 1002.02(c), authority to decide the following requests filed in design applications…
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