What is a means-plus-function claim limitation?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs 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. A means-plus-function claim limitation is a claim element that uses the term “means” (or “step”) and is coupled with functional language, without reciting specific structure to perform the function. These limitations are interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) . As stated in the MPEP: “ An element in a claim for a combination may be expressed as a means or step for performing a specified function without the recital of structure, material, or acts in support thereof, and such claim shall be construed to cover the corresponding structure, material, or acts described in the specification and equivalents thereof. “ Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Claim Limitation Must Be Interpreted Under 35 U.S.C. 112(f) Explicitly Stated MPEP 2181 Recommended Claim Limitation Must Be Supported by Specification MPEP 2181 Required Application of 35 U.S.C. 112(f) Driven by Claim Language MPEP 2181 Claim May Be Indefinite When 35 U.S.C. 112(f) Analysis Is Ambiguous MPEP 2181 Recommended Claim Limitation May Be Indefinite When 35 U.S.C. 112(f) Analysis Is Ambiguous MPEP 2181 Recommended Rebuttable Presumptions for 35 U.S.C. 112(f) MPEP 2181 Recommended Claim Element Function Without Step Language MPEP 2181 Requirement for Corresponding Structure Described in Specification MPEP 2181 Claim Limitation Presumed to Invoke Means/Step Provision MPEP 2181 Claim Limitation Presumed to Invoke Means-Plus-Function When Using 'Means' and Functional Language Without Corresponding Structure MPEP 2181 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What is the &#8220;algorithm requirement&#8221; for computer-implemented functions under 112(f)? How are computer-implemented means-plus-function limitation...