Are specimens allowed in international design applications designating the United States?
No, specimens are not permitted in international design applications designating the United States. The MPEP clearly states:
“In addition, specimens are not permitted in international design applications designating the United States. See 37 CFR 1.1027.“
This restriction is important for applicants to be aware of when preparing their international design applications that include the United States as a designated country. Instead of specimens, applicants must provide the required reproductions of the industrial design.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2900 - International Design Applications,
MPEP 2909 - Contents Of The International Design Application,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure