How does considering variant embodiments affect prior art searches?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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. Considering variant embodiments significantly impacts prior art searches by: Broadening the scope of the search to include potential variations of the claimed invention Helping examiners identify relevant prior art that may not be an exact match to the disclosed embodiment Ensuring a more comprehensive examination of patentability MPEP 904.01(a) emphasizes that “ any such variant encountered during the search should be recognized. ” This approach allows examiners to find prior art that may anticipate or render obvious the claimed invention, even if it doesn’t precisely match the specific embodiment described in the application. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Examiner Must Consider Prior Art from Parent Application MPEP 904 Required Review of Cited Prior Art from Parent Application Required MPEP 904 Recommended First Search Should Cover Invention as Claimed MPEP 904 Recommended Examiner Must Identify All Prior Art Sources MPEP 904 Required Claim Must Include UnDisclosed Variants MPEP 904.01(a) Required Search Updates Must Include All Relevant Databases and Queries MPEP 904 Recommended Document Used in Claim Rejection Is Called a Reference MPEP 904 Sketches Must Delineate Claim Limitations MPEP 904.01(a) Permitted Sketched Variants Assist Examiner Determination MPEP 904.01(a) Required Sketches Must Delineate Claim Limitations MPEP 904.01(a) Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Are applicants required to submit sketches of claim structure? Why is it important to consider variant embodiments during patent examination? What are variant embodiments within the scope of a claim? How can patent examiners visualize variant embodiments? What additional class...