MPEP 800 primarily addresses which issue in patent applications?

MPEP 800 addresses the issues of double patenting and restrictions in patent applications. Double patenting occurs when a patent applicant attempts to obtain more than one patent for the same invention, or for inventions that are not sufficiently distinct from one another. This principle is designed to prevent the unjust extension of patent rights, ensuring that an applicant does not receive multiple patents that effectively cover the same invention, which could hinder competition and innovation.

Additionally, restrictions are relevant to determining when an applicant must limit their claims to a single invention in a patent application. The requirement for restrictions helps manage the examination process by ensuring that a patent examiner can adequately assess each invention without unnecessary confusion over multiple distinct inventions that may not be related.

The significance of MPEP 800 lies in maintaining the integrity of the patent system by preventing an applicant from securing exclusive rights that go beyond what is actually considered novel and non-obvious, thereby aligning with essential patent laws and regulations.