What happens if the OPAP finds patent drawings unacceptable?

If the Office of Patent Application Processing (OPAP) finds patent drawings unacceptable, the following process occurs:

1. OPAP sends a Notice to File Corrected Application Papers to the applicant.
2. The applicant is given a two-month period from the mailing date to file acceptable drawings.
3. This period is extendable under 37 CFR 1.136(a).
4. The application will not be released to the Technology Centers until acceptable drawings are filed.

As stated in the MPEP: OPAP will send a Notice to File Corrected Application Papers if the drawings are unacceptable for purposes of publication. The notice will give applicant a time period of two (2) months from the mailing date of the notice to file acceptable drawings. This time period for reply is extendable under 37 CFR 1.136(a).

To learn more:

• OPAP
• unacceptable drawings
• corrected application papers
• patent examination