What is the purpose of the preamble in a design patent specification?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-27 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 preamble in a design patent specification serves a specific purpose as described in MPEP 1503.01 : “The preamble, if included, should state the name of the applicant, the title of the design, and a brief description of the nature and intended use of the article in which the design is embodied or applied.” Key points about the preamble: It’s optional but can provide useful context. It should be brief and to the point. It can help clarify the article’s nature if the title is not self-explanatory. It should not include a detailed description of the design. Example preamble: “I, [Applicant’s Name], have invented a new design for a Chair, as set forth in the following specification.” Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Description of Nature and Use May Be in Preamble If Broad Title Used MPEP 1503.01 Permitted Design Patent Specification Must Follow 37 CFR 1.154 MPEP 1503 Design Patent Application Must Contain Only One Claim MPEP 1503.01 Permitted Preamble Must Include Applicant, Design Title, and Article Description MPEP 1503.01 Recommended Design Patent Application Requires Utility Patent Elements MPEP 1503 Required Claim Must Describe Ornamental Design For Article Shown MPEP 1503.01 Required Single Claim Required for Design Patent MPEP 1503.01 Required Description of Article Must Match Title Terminology MPEP 1503.01 Recommended Specification Must Include Preamble MPEP 1503.01 Order of Design Specification Sections Required MPEP 1503.01 Recommended Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse How should broken lines be described in a design patent specification? What is the purpose of the specification in a design patent application? How should the title be wr...