What should be included in replacement drawing sheets for patent applications?

When submitting replacement drawing sheets for patent applications, applicants should ensure the following:

  1. Include all figures from the immediate prior version of the sheet, even if only one figure is being amended.
  2. Label the sheet as ‘Replacement Sheet’ in the top margin.
  3. Include the application number and art unit in the upper center margin.
  4. Do not label amended drawing figures as ‘amended’.
  5. Remove canceled figures and renumber remaining figures if necessary.

The MPEP 608.02(b) states:

Any amended replacement drawing sheet should include all of the figures appearing on the immediate prior version of the sheet, even if only one figure is being amended. The figure or figure number of an amended drawing should not be labeled as ‘amended.’

Additionally, a marked-up copy of the replacement sheet with annotations indicating changes may be required.

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Topics: Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: figure labeling, patent drawings