What are the three broad types of patent applications?
According to the MPEP, patent applications can be directed to three broad types of subject matter: Utility patent applications under 35 U.S.C. 101 for “a new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter” Plant patent applications under 35 U.S.C. 161 Design patent applications under 35 U.S.C. 171
Read MoreWhat types of patent applications can be filed in the USPTO?
The three main types of patent applications that can be filed in the USPTO are: Utility patent applications (filed under 35 U.S.C. 101) for “any new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter” Design patent applications (filed under 35 U.S.C. 171) for “any new, original, and ornamental design for an article of manufacture”…
Read MoreWhat is the purpose of drawing review in the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP)?
The primary purpose of drawing review in OPAP is to determine whether the drawings in new utility and plant patent applications can be effectively scanned for publication purposes. As stated in MPEP 507: The Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) performs an initial review of drawings in new utility and plant patent applications to determine…
Read MoreHow are color drawings and photographs handled in utility and design patent applications?
For utility and design patent applications, as well as related proceedings, color drawings and photographs are handled as follows, according to MPEP 608.02(c): Except for international applications, color photographs and color drawings in utility and design applications and proceedings will be stored in SCORE and a black and white copy thereof will be stored in…
Read MoreAre photographs allowed in patent applications?
Photographs are generally not permitted in utility and design patent applications, but exceptions exist. According to MPEP 608.01(f): Photographs, including photocopies of photographs, are not ordinarily permitted in utility and design patent applications. The Office will accept photographs in utility and design patent applications, however, if photographs are the only practicable medium for illustrating the…
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