How does the broadest reasonable interpretation (BRI) affect patent eligibility analysis?
The broadest reasonable interpretation (BRI) plays a crucial role in patent eligibility analysis. The MPEP states:
“It is essential that the broadest reasonable interpretation (BRI) of the claim be established prior to examining a claim for eligibility. The BRI sets the boundaries of the coverage sought by the claim and will influence whether the claim seeks to cover subject matter that is beyond the four statutory categories or encompasses subject matter that falls within the exceptions.”
The BRI affects both criteria for eligibility: determining whether the claim falls within one of the four statutory categories and applying the Alice/Mayo test. It ensures that patent eligibility is not dependent on the drafter’s art and helps examiners evaluate claims consistently across all technologies.
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