Are drawings always necessary for a patent application?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. Drawings are not always necessary for a patent application, but they are required when essential for understanding the invention. According to the MPEP, 35 U.S.C. 113 (first sentence) in turn provides that an ‘applicant shall furnish a drawing where necessary for the understanding of the subject matter sought to be patented.’ The USPTO has specific practices for determining when drawings might not be necessary, such as for certain process claims, composition applications, and situations where the invention resides solely in the use of a particular material in an otherwise known article or system. Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is an inventor&#8217;s certificate and how does it relate to patent priority rights? Can an inventor authorize someone else to sign the application oath or declaration on their behalf? What is the difference between an inventor and an applicant in a patent application? What are the signature requirements for inventor&#8217;s oaths or declarations? What are the requirements for inventor signatures on patent applications?