How does MPEP Chapter 800 address unity of invention for PCT applications?
MPEP Chapter 800 does not directly address unity of invention for PCT applications. Instead, it refers readers to MPEP Chapter 1800 for information on unity of invention under the Patent Cooperation Treaty. The introduction states:
“The discussion of unity of invention under the Patent Cooperation Treaty Articles and Rules as it is applied as an International Searching Authority, International Preliminary Examining Authority, and in applications entering the National Stage under 35 U.S.C. 371 as a Designated or Elected Office in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office is covered in MPEP Chapter 1800.”
This means that for PCT-related unity of invention issues, examiners and applicants should refer to MPEP Chapter 1800 rather than Chapter 800.
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