Where should an "intended use" or "field of use" statement be located in a patent claim?

The "intended use" or "field of use" statement is appropriately placed in the preamble section of a patent claim. The preamble serves as an introduction and typically outlines the context in which the invention is applicable, which is essential for defining the scope and understanding the purpose of the claims that follow. Including this statement in the preamble helps to clarify the invention's objectives and technological field, thereby providing necessary background to interpret the subsequent claim language.

In patent claims, the preamble can play a crucial role in establishing the boundaries of patent protection. A precise statement regarding intended use can prevent ambiguities and misinterpretations concerning what the inventor seeks to protect. By defining the field of use upfront, it assists examiners, competitors, and the public in understanding the innovation's applications.

Other sections, like the Summary of the Invention or Background of the Invention, are not suitable for such statements within the claim structure. While they may provide relevant context and information, they are not part of the claim itself, which needs to focus on the legal definition of the invention as defined by its claims. Thus, the placement of "intended use" or "field of use" statements in the preamble is both strategically important and consistent with patent