What are the requirements for labeling amended drawing sheets?

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.

When submitting amended drawing sheets in response to objections, proper labeling is crucial. According to MPEP 608.02(e), the requirements for labeling amended drawing sheets are:

1. Each drawing sheet submitted after the filing date of an application must be labeled in the top margin as either ‘Replacement Sheet’ or ‘New Sheet’.
2. This labeling must be done pursuant to 37 CFR 1.121(d).
3. The figure or figure number of an amended drawing should not be labeled as ‘amended’.

It’s important to note that Any amended replacement drawing sheet should include all of the figures appearing on the immediate prior version of the sheet, even if only one figure is being amended. This ensures continuity and completeness in the drawing record.