How does the USPTO handle informal drawings in patent applications?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09 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 USPTO handles informal drawings in patent applications as follows: If the drawings are informal but otherwise sufficient for examination, the USPTO will accept them provisionally. The drawings will be approved by the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) for publication purposes. Formal drawings will be required if the application is allowed. According to MPEP 507 : ‘If the drawings are informal but otherwise in compliance with 37 CFR 1.121(d), the OPAP will accept the application for purposes of publication and place a ‘Drawing Informalities’ form PTO-948 in the file wrapper.’ The examiner may require formal drawings or corrections in a subsequent office action if necessary for a proper examination or if the application is allowed. For more information on drawing review, visit: drawing review . For more information on informal drawings, visit: informal drawings . For more information on OPAP, visit: OPAP . Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Office of Patent Application Processing Reviews Drawings for Publication MPEP 507 Permitted Design Patent Drawings Not Reviewed for Publication MPEP 507 Corrected Drawings Required Upon Notice From OPAP MPEP 507 Required Drawings Reflect Application Filing Quality Unless Improved MPEP 507 Most Drawings Including Informal Ones Are Acceptable MPEP 507 Corrected Drawings Required for Legibility and Compliance MPEP 507 Permitted No Fee for Corrected Drawings Required by OPAP MPEP 507 Required Color Drawings Prohibited Without Petition MPEP 507 Black and White Copies No Longer Required for Color Drawings/Photographs MPEP 507 Drawings Must Be Scannable and Reproducible MPEP 507 Permitted Other Related FAQ...