How should text be used in PCT application drawings?
Text in PCT application drawings should be minimized and used only when absolutely necessary. According to MPEP 1825 and PCT Rule 11.11:
“The drawings shall not contain text matter, except a single word or words, when absolutely indispensable, such as ‘water,’ ‘steam,’ ‘open,’ ‘closed,’ ‘section on AB,’ and, in the case of electric circuits and block schematic or flow sheet diagrams, a few short catchwords indispensable for understanding.”
Additionally, any words used must be placed so that they can be translated without interfering with the drawing lines. It’s important to note that if text is included in a language not accepted under PCT Rule 12.1(a), it may affect the international filing date of the application.
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