How does the USPTO currently maintain patent application documents?

Question

Accepted Answer

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-10 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. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has modernized its document management system. According to MPEP 714.07 : Application papers are now maintained in an Image File Wrapper This means that patent application documents are digitally scanned and stored, rather than being kept solely as physical copies. This digital system allows for easier access, management, and preservation of patent application documents. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Amendments Must Be Filed Compliantly MPEP 714 Amendments Must Be Filed Compliantly MPEP 714 Amendments to Specification Must Follow Specific Methods MPEP 714 Required Paragraph Deletion Must Not Use Strike-Through MPEP 714 Prohibited Amendment to Delete a Paragraph Must Be Clearly Identified MPEP 714 Permitted Specification Changes Must Show All Modifications MPEP 714 Added Specification Text Must Be Underlined MPEP 714 Required Formatting for Deleted Specification Text MPEP 714 Required Deleted Specification Text Must Be Bracketed MPEP 714 Prohibited Reinstating Previously Deleted Specification Section MPEP 714 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Has the importance of paper type for patent applications changed with digital record-keeping? Can &#8216;Easily Erasable&#8217; paper be used for patent applications? What type of ink is required for patent application documents? No more FAQs What happens if an amendment under 37 CFR 1.312 adds claims exceeding the previously paid number?