The Interpretation of Means Expressions During Prosecution

Journal of the Patent and Trademark Office Society, Vol. 68, p. 246, 1986

36 Pages Posted: 27 Jan 2011

Date Written: 1986

Abstract

This article briefly explains how the scope of a claim including a means expression is determined both under the PTO view and a strict application of the statutory language. The lack of consensus and current state of the law in the area are illustrated through an analysis of several recent decisions of the Federal Circuit. The policies underlying the PTO and statutory methods of interpreting means expressions during prosecution are examined in an effort to demonstrate that the statutory method more effectively furthers the policies underlying the patent system.

Keywords: patents, patent claims, federal circuit courts, PTO, means expressions, prior art, CCPA

Suggested Citation

Moy, Robert Carl, The Interpretation of Means Expressions During Prosecution (1986). Journal of the Patent and Trademark Office Society, Vol. 68, p. 246, 1986 , Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1748768

Robert Carl Moy (Contact Author)

Mitchell Hamline School of Law ( email )

875 Summit Ave
St. Paul, MN 55105-3076
United States
651-290-6344 (Phone)
651-290-6406 (Fax)

HOME PAGE: http://www.wmitchell.edu/academics/faculty/Moy.asp

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