What is an Application Data Sheet (ADS) for patent applications filed before September 16, 2012?

An Application Data Sheet (ADS) is a voluntary submission for patent applications filed before September 16, 2012, that contains bibliographic data arranged in a specific format. According to MPEP 601.05(b), “An application data sheet is a sheet or sheets, that may be voluntarily submitted in either provisional or nonprovisional applications, which contains bibliographic data, arranged in a format specified by the Office.” The ADS becomes part of the application and must be titled “Application Data Sheet.”

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Topics: Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: ADS, application data sheet, bibliographic data, pre-AIA