What forms do patent examiners use to communicate about replacement drawings?
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.
Patent examiners have several forms at their disposal to communicate about replacement drawings:
- Form Paragraph 6.37: Used to acknowledge receipt of replacement drawing sheets.
- Form PTOL-324: Can be used instead of Form Paragraph 6.37 to provide explanations about drawing compliance.
- 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.