What is the requirement for amending drawings and descriptions based on claim content?

Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based)BlueIron Update: 2024-09-09

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.

When a claim discloses subject matter not shown in the drawing or described in the description, the applicant may be required to amend the drawing and description. However, this requirement is contingent on the claim providing sufficiently specific and detailed disclosure. The MPEP 608.01(l) states: “It is, of course, to be understood that this disclosure in the claim must be sufficiently specific and detailed to support the necessary amendment of the drawing and description.” This means that the claim must provide enough information to enable a person skilled in the art to make the necessary amendments to the drawings and description.

Topics: Patent Law Patent Procedure
Tags: Patent Description, patent drawings