How does changing numeric range limits affect patent claim scope?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-29 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. Changing numeric range limits can significantly affect patent claim scope. The MPEP 2163.05 provides guidance on this: “A claim that omits an element which applicant describes as an essential or critical feature of the invention originally disclosed does not comply with the written description requirement.” This principle applies to numeric ranges as well. Modifying range limits can either broaden or narrow the claim scope. For example: Expanding a range (e.g., from 5-25% to 1-30%) generally broadens the claim scope. Narrowing a range (e.g., from 5-25% to 10-20%) typically narrows the claim scope. In both cases, the new range must be supported by the original disclosure to comply with the written description requirement. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Claims Must Be Supported by Original Disclosure MPEP 2163 Required Claims Must Be Supported by Original Disclosure MPEP 2163.05 Claims Must Be Supported by As-Filed Disclosure MPEP 2163.05 Written Description Requirement Ensures Claims Match Specification MPEP 2163 Claims Must Be Supported by As-Filed Disclosure MPEP 2163 Claims Must Be Supported by Description MPEP 2163 Claims Must Be Supported by Description of Invention MPEP 2163 Claims Must Be Supported by Description MPEP 2163 Claim Limitations Must Be Supported by Original Disclosure MPEP 2163 Required Originally Filed Claims Must Be Supported by Description MPEP 2163 Required Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does adding a specific limitation to a claim affect its scope? How can a genus claim satisfy the written description requirement? What is the significance of the genus-species relationship in patent claims? What is the significance...