What is the standard term for a utility patent?

The standard term for a utility patent is 20 years from the filing date of the earliest application to which the patent claims priority. This is known as the “twenty-year term.” As stated in the MPEP, For applications filed on or after June 8, 1995, Section 532(a)(1) of the Uruguay Round Agreements Act (Public Law…

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How does a design patent differ from a utility patent?

Design patents and utility patents protect different aspects of an invention: Design Patent: Protects the ornamental design or appearance of an article of manufacture. Utility Patent: Protects the functional aspects, structure, or process of an invention. According to MPEP 1502, a design patent covers “the visual characteristics embodied in or applied to an article.” This…

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What are the eligibility requirements for the Accelerated Examination program?

To be eligible for the Accelerated Examination program, an application must meet the following criteria: Be a non-reissue utility or design application filed under 35 U.S.C. 111(a) on or after August 25, 2006 Not be a plant application, reissue application, national stage application, reexamination proceeding, or RCE (unless previously granted special status) Not be based…

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What is the recommended arrangement of elements in a utility patent application?

The recommended arrangement of elements in a utility patent application is outlined in 37 CFR 1.77. The elements should appear in the following order: Utility application transmittal form Fee transmittal form Application data sheet Specification Drawings The inventor’s oath or declaration The specification should include specific sections in a particular order, starting with the title…

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What are the rules for submitting color drawings in a patent application?

What are the rules for submitting color drawings in a patent application? Submitting color drawings in a patent application requires special considerations and procedures. According to MPEP 608.02: “Color drawings are not ordinarily permitted in utility patent applications. The Office will accept color drawings in utility patent applications only after granting a petition filed under…

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