What is the legal basis for the requirement of definite claim language in patents?

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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. The legal basis for the requirement of definite claim language in patents is found in 35 U.S.C. 112(b) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, second paragraph. The MPEP states: “ 35 U.S.C. 112(b) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, second paragraph requires that a patent application specification shall conclude with one or more claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter which the inventor or a joint inventor regards as the invention. “ This statutory requirement forms the foundation for the definiteness standard in patent claims, ensuring that the boundaries of the claimed invention are clearly delineated. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Claims Must Particularly Point Out and Distinctly Claim the Invention MPEP 2173 Required Claims Must Particularly Point Out and Distinctly Claim the Invention MPEP 2173 Requirement for Clear Claim Language MPEP 2173 Permitted Definiteness Requirement for Claims MPEP 2173 Required Claims Must Be Clear and Definite MPEP 2173 Claims Must Clearly Define Boundaries MPEP 2173 Required Requirement for Clear Claim Boundaries MPEP 2173 Required Claim Must Be Definite Under Section 112(b) MPEP 2173 Inventor's Oath for Reissue Application MPEP 1414.01 Required Requirement for Timely Submission of Replacement Drawings MPEP 1121 Permitted Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse What actions must a patent examiner take when encountering indefinite claim language? What is the primary purpose of the definiteness requirement in patent claims? What is the secondary purpose of the definiteness requirement in patent claims? How does the USPTO view the importance of claim definiteness in patent quality? When should an examiner m...