How are proprietary materials handled under MPEP § 724.02?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 10 Rules 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. Proprietary materials submitted under MPEP § 724.02 are handled with special care to protect sensitive information. The MPEP states: ‘Proprietary information, which is information not trade secret information but which the submitter considers to be sensitive, may be submitted in a patent application or reexamination proceeding subject to the provisions of this section.’ This means that proprietary materials are treated similarly to trade secrets. They may include: Technical data Research results Business strategies Confidential agreements When submitting proprietary materials, applicants should follow the procedures outlined in MPEP § 724.02 to ensure proper handling and protection of the information during the patent examination process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Petition to Expunge Trade Secret Information If Not Material MPEP 724.02 Recommended Trade Secrets and Proprietary Materials Must Be Submitted MPEP 724 Trade Secrets and Proprietary Materials Must Be Sealed MPEP 724.02 Required Trade Secrets and Proprietary Information Submission MPEP 724 Required Trade Secrets Must Not Be Considered During Examination MPEP 724 Recommended Transmittal Letter Must State Trade Secrets and Protective Orders MPEP 724.02 Required Duty to Disclose Material Information During Reexamination MPEP 724 Submission of Trade Secrets Must Not Disclose Material Information MPEP 724 Recommended Trade Secrets Not to Deter Patent Grant MPEP 724 Recommended Patent Grant vs Trade Secret Protection Conflict MPEP 724 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What happens if a reissue application is abandoned with submitted materials under MPEP § 724.02? What is the process for...