¶ 8.17 Process and Apparatus

Inventions [1] and [2] are related as process and apparatus for its practice. The inventions are distinct if it can be shown that either: (1) the process as claimed can be practiced by another materially different apparatus or by hand, or (2) the apparatus as claimed can be used to practice another materially different process. (MPEP § 806.05(e)). In this case [3].

Examiner Note:

• 1. This form paragraph is to be used when claims are presented to both a process and apparatus for its practice (MPEP § 806.05(e)).
• 2. In bracket 3, use one or more of the following reasons:
  • –the process as claimed can be practiced by another materially different apparatus such as……–,
  • –the process as claimed can be practiced by hand–,
  • –the apparatus as claimed can be used to practice another materially different process such as……–.
• 3. A process can be practiced by hand if it can be performed without using any apparatus.
• 4. Conclude restriction requirement with form paragraph 8.21.
• 5. All restriction requirements between a process and an apparatus (or product) for practicing the process should be followed by form paragraph 8.21.04 to notify the applicant that if an apparatus claim is found allowable, process claims that depend from or otherwise require all the limitations of the patentable apparatus may be rejoined.