How to avoid intended use in control system inventions.

A key decision for all patent applicants – whether to file a continuation application. Some guidance on how to decide.

A recent PTAB decision on recusal standards – worth a read.

Difficulties in prosecution are multiplied by re-issue rules that act to limit the applicant in their ability to broaden claims in a broadening reissue application.

Be careful when arguing claim elements – if the specification provides a broadening of those terms, the USPTO will use it to support their overly broad interpretation.

When deep in the technology can be too deep.

Even very specific machines can be abstract if they recite a mathematical algorithm and not much else.

Can intended use be used by examiners to ignore elements of a method claim?

Appeals can make a lot of sense, but do not forget the most important requirement – you need arguments that hold up to PTAB scrutiny.

The Illusion of Quality at the USPTO – its clear from the USPTO’s very own explanation of the program.