What does MPEP 2100 cover?

MPEP 2100 is focused on the topic of patentability. This section outlines the requirements that an invention must meet in order to be considered for patent protection under United States patent law. It includes definitions and criteria pertaining to various aspects of patentability, such as novelty, non-obviousness, and utility, along with general principles that guide patent examiners in evaluating whether an application meets these standards.

The discussion around patentability addresses critical topics such as prior art, the significance of claims, and the various statutory requirements laid out in Title 35 of the U.S. Code. By understanding the nuances presented in MPEP 2100, patent applicants can better prepare their submissions to ensure they align with the standards necessary for obtaining a patent, making it an essential section of the Manual for anyone involved in the patent process.

Other options, while important in their own right, focus on different aspects of patent law and application processes. International applications pertain to processes separate from domestic patentability standards, fee structures address the financial requirements associated with filing and maintaining patents, and patent infringement deals with legal issues relating to the unauthorized use of patented inventions, which are distinct from the criteria for patenting an invention in the first place.