Can both a process and a product be defined in the same claim?

In the context of patent claims, a claim must distinctly articulate a single invention to meet the requirements of clarity and definiteness. The prohibition against including both a process and a product in the same claim arises from the need for clear boundaries regarding the scope of protection provided by the claim. If a claim attempts to define both a process and a product without adequate separation, it can lead to ambiguity, making it difficult for one skilled in the art to determine the exact subject matter that the claim covers. As a result, such a claim is often deemed indefinite, as it fails to clearly delineate the inventive aspects and can confuse the boundaries of what is being claimed.

To ensure effective protection and maintain clarity, the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP) generally recommends that inventors draft claims focusing on one type of invention, thus preventing confusion and supporting clear examination processes. This approach lies at the heart of promoting a well-defined and coherent legal framework for patent rights.