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In a number of cases the ISPE Guidelines leave ISAs/IPEAs the choice between alternative guidelines upon which each ISA/IPEA may rely as appropriate.
The options are set out in the appendices to the chapters of the ISPE Guidelines mentioned below. The paragraph number (e.g. Point A5.16) refers to the relevant paragraph in the chapter concerned (in this case Chapter 5, point 16).
The EPO as ISA/IPEA has chosen the options listed below.
Appendix to Chapter 4
Point A4.05 |
References to prior art |
Option [1] applies |
Appendix to Chapter 5
Point A5.16 |
Multiple dependent claims |
Option [2] applies |
Point A5.20 |
Interpretation of claims |
Option [2] applies |
Point A5.21 |
The EPO applies the first sentence concerning "use" claims |
|
Point A5.26 |
Product-by-process claims |
Option [1] applies |
Point A5.42 |
Conciseness |
Option [2] applies |
Appendix to Chapter 9
Point A9.07 |
Excluded subject matter |
Option [2] applies |
Point A9.15 |
Programs for computers |
Option [2] applies |
Appendix to Chapter 12
Point A12.02 |
Novelty: effective date |
Option [1] applies |
Appendix to Chapter 13
Point A13.08 |
The EPO applies the problem-solution approach |
Appendix to Chapter 14
Point 14.01[02] |
The EPO applies the criterion of industrial applicability |
Appendix to Chapter 20
Point A20.21 |
Disclaimer |
Option [2] applies |