What is the primary purpose of the definiteness requirement in patent claims?
The primary purpose of the definiteness requirement in patent claims is to ensure clarity in the scope of the claims. As stated in the MPEP, “The primary purpose of this requirement of definiteness of claim language is to ensure that the scope of the claims is clear so the public is informed of the boundaries of what constitutes infringement of the patent.” This clarity is essential for the public to understand what actions might infringe on the patent.
Additionally, the MPEP emphasizes that “It is of utmost importance that patents issue with definite claims that clearly and precisely inform persons skilled in the art of the boundaries of protected subject matter.” This underscores the critical nature of claim definiteness in patent law.
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