What forms do patent examiners use to communicate about replacement drawings?

Patent examiners have several forms at their disposal to communicate about replacement drawings:

  1. Form Paragraph 6.37: Used to acknowledge receipt of replacement drawing sheets.
  2. Form PTOL-324: Can be used instead of Form Paragraph 6.37 to provide explanations about drawing compliance.
  3. Form PTOL-326 (Office Action Summary): Includes a specific block for acknowledging replacement drawings.

The MPEP 608.02(h) provides guidance on using these forms:

“Form paragraph 6.37 may be used to acknowledge replacement drawing sheets. […] Form PTOL-324 may be used instead of this form paragraph to provide the explanation. Alternatively, PTOL-326 Office Action Summary includes a block for acknowledgment of replacement drawings.”

These forms help ensure clear and consistent communication between examiners and applicants regarding the status and acceptability of replacement drawings.

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Topics: Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: patent examination, USPTO Forms