What drawing changes can be made without the applicant’s annotated sheets?

According to MPEP 608.02(w), certain minor drawing changes can be made without requiring annotated sheets from the applicant. These changes include:

  • Adding two or three reference characters or exponents
  • Changing one or two numerals or figure ordinals
  • Removing superfluous matter
  • Adding or reversing directional arrows
  • Changing Roman Numerals to Arabic Numerals to agree with specification
  • Adding section lines or brackets, where easily executed
  • Changing lead lines
  • Correcting misspelled legends

The examiner can suggest these changes in a letter to the applicant, often including a marked-up copy of the drawing showing the proposed additions or alterations.

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Topics: Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: patent drawings, USPTO