How does the USPTO define a combination in patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 8 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) defines a combination in patent applications according to the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) 806.05(a) . The MPEP states: “A combination is an organization of which a subcombination or element is a part.” This definition emphasizes that a combination in a patent application refers to a larger system or invention that incorporates one or more subcombinations or individual elements. Patent examiners use this definition to evaluate claims and determine whether restrictions or divisions are necessary during the examination process. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 8 rules Collapse Requirement for Non-Distinct Inventions Not to Be Restricted MPEP 806 Prohibited Requirement for Distinct Inventions MPEP 806 Invention Distinctness Requirement MPEP 806 Permitted Restriction to One Independent Invention Is Proper MPEP 806 Invention Distinctness Requirement MPEP 806 Permitted Where Inventions Are Related But Not Distinct, Restriction Is Never Proper MPEP 806 Reasonable Number of Species May Be Claimed When Generic Claim Is Allowed MPEP 806 Permitted Allowable Claim Must Cover Reasonable Number of Species MPEP 806 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How does 37 CFR 1.141(b) relate to restriction requirements in patent applications? What is the &#8220;ABsp/Bsp&#8221; example in MPEP 806.05(c) and how does it illustrate subcombination-combination distinctness? What happens if a combination claim is found allowable in a restriction between subcombinations? What happens when a generic claim becomes allowable in a patent application? What is the distinction between an apparatus and a product made by the apparatus?