How does the broadest reasonable interpretation standard apply to means-plus-function claim limitations?
The broadest reasonable interpretation (BRI) standard applies differently to means-plus-function claim limitations. According to MPEP 2181, means-plus-function limitations are interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f):
“The broadest reasonable interpretation of a claim limitation that invokes 35 U.S.C. 112(f) is the structure, material or act described in the specification as performing the entire claimed function and equivalents to the disclosed structure, material or act.”
This means that for means-plus-function limitations, the BRI is limited to the specific structure disclosed in the specification for performing the claimed function, along with equivalents. This interpretation is narrower than the typical BRI applied to other claim limitations.
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