What is the purpose of a count in an interference proceeding?
The purpose of a count in an interference proceeding is to define the scope of the interfering subject matter between competing parties. According to MPEP 2304.02(b):
“A count defines the interfering subject matter between two or more applications or between one or more applications and one or more patents.”
The count serves as a basis for determining priority of invention and helps focus the proceedings on the specific subject matter in dispute.
To learn more:
Topics:
MPEP 2300 - Interference And Derivation Proceedings,
MPEP 2304.02(B) - Counts And Corresponding Claims,
Patent Law,
Patent Procedure